Carlton Livingstone: The Soulful Voice of Jamaican Reggae

Carlton Livingstone is a Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter known for his smooth vocal delivery and socially conscious lyrics. Hailing from Kingston, he achieved significant commercial success in the late 1990s with his platinum-certified album Forward Ever.

Early career

Born in Kingston in 1970, Carlton Livingstone began his musical journey singing in church and local talent shows. His professional break came in 1992 when he recorded his first single, "Jah Light," for the small but influential Kingston-based label Roots Foundation.

This early release showcased his signature blend of classic roots reggae and a more contemporary lovers rock style. Livingstone built a steady following in Jamaica through consistent touring and a series of well-received singles throughout the early 1990s.

Breakthrough

Carlton Livingstone's breakthrough arrived in 1997 with the release of his second studio album, Forward Ever, on the major reggae imprint VP Records. The album's lead single, "Rivers of Babylon (New Vision)," became a massive hit across the Caribbean and entered the UK Singles Chart.

Forward Ever was certified platinum in Jamaica and gold in several European markets, solidifying his status as an international reggae artist. This success was built on a relentless touring schedule that took his authentic Jamaican sound to audiences worldwide.

Key tracks

Rivers of Babylon (New Vision) — This reimagining of the classic Melodians tune served as his international breakthrough single and a staple of his live sets.

Forward Ever — The title track from his landmark album is an anthem of perseverance and social justice that defines his lyrical focus.

Never Leave I Alone — A quintessential lovers rock ballad that highlights the smoother, romantic side of his vocal repertoire.

Jah Kingdom Come — This powerful roots reggae track exemplifies his spiritual depth and connection to the genre's foundational themes.

Following his breakthrough, Livingstone continued to release albums steadily, including 2001's Still Standing and 2005's Journey. He has collaborated with notable figures in the reggae world, such as producer Donovan Bennett and singer Marcia Griffiths, further cementing his place in the genre's modern lineage. His music consistently explores themes of unity, love, and Rastafarian spirituality, delivered with a voice that is both commanding and comforting.

Fans of Carlton Livingstone's authentic Jamaican reggae sound also appreciate the work of Beres Hammond for his similarly soulful vocal style and lovers rock influence. The conscious lyrics and roots rhythms of Luciano offer a parallel musical journey. Listeners are also directed to the modern roots sound of Chronixx, who carries forward the tradition of socially engaged reggae music.

Carlton Livingstone's catalog remains a fixture on reggae and world music radio stations, from dedicated online reggae streams to independent music radio stations that champion classic and contemporary Jamaican sounds. His hits are regularly featured in rotation, ensuring his soulful voice reaches both long-time fans and new listeners discovering the depth of reggae music.

You can hear the music of Carlton Livingstone on the radio stations featured on our website. Explore the reggae genre and listen to Carlton Livingstone's timeless tracks through the curated radio stations available on onairium.com.