Throwback 45s: Earl Cunningham – Words Of The Father

ARTIST: Earl Cunningham
TITLE: Words Of The Father
LABEL: D.E.B. Music
YEAR: 1978

Some reggae records don’t need a big discography or a famous name to make an impact. They simply have the right sound, the right message, and that special quality that keeps bringing you back to the turntable. Earl Cunningham’s killer tune Words Of The Father, originally released in Jamaica in 1978, is one of those records.

Produced by Dennis Brown for his D.E.B. Music label, the single features the rock-solid D.E.B. Players laying down a deep and steady rockers riddim. The track carries that heavy, spacious sound that defined so much of the roots music coming out of Jamaica in the late 1970s.

The message is just as strong as the music. Cunningham addresses the youth, particularly those growing up in the ghetto, urging them to resist temptation, hold on to their faith, and listen to the guidance of the Almighty. There’s no need for complicated wording. The message comes through clearly, carried by a warm, emotional vocal performance and a riddim built to let every word sink in.

For those who are strongly interested in Jamaican music history, Words Of The Father is also a reminder of how many talented artists operated outside the biggest names of the era. Earl Cunningham was born in eastern Kingston on October 22, 1959, and was influenced by The Heptones and Dennis Brown before embarking on his own musical journey. After an unsuccessful start with Roy Francis, he went on to record for several respected producers including Jah Thomas and Roy Cousins.

His recorded output may be relatively small, but the quality of his work has earned him a loyal following among roots collectors and sound system selectors. Words Of The Father remains one of his standout recordings. It’s the kind of roots single that rewards repeated listening. Put the needle down, let that bassline roll, and Words Of The Father quickly reminds you why the deep roots era continues to inspire reggae lovers and collectors around the world.