Third World: Pioneers of Reggae and Roots Fusion
Third World is a Jamaican reggae band renowned for blending roots reggae with funk, soul, and R&B. Formed in 1973, the group achieved international success with major hits in the late 1970s and 1980s, selling millions of records and earning a Grammy nomination for their classic album "96° In The Shade".
Early career
Third World was formed in Kingston, Jamaica in 1973 by guitarist Stephen "Cat" Coore and keyboardist Michael "Ibo" Cooper, both former members of the group Inner Circle. The original lineup, completed by singer William "Bunny Rugs" Clarke, bassist Richie Daley, and drummer Carl Barovier, aimed to create a more expansive sound beyond traditional reggae. They were soon discovered by Chris Blackwell and signed to his influential Island Records label, releasing their self-titled debut album in 1976.
Breakthrough
The band's commercial breakthrough came in 1978 with the album "Journey to Addis" and its infectious single Now That We've Found Love. This cover of a Gamble & Huff song, transformed into a disco-reggae anthem, became a global hit, reaching the Top 10 on the US R&B chart and the UK Singles Chart. The success established Third World as international stars and led to extensive touring, including opening for the Jacksons on their 1979 Destiny Tour.
Key tracks
Now That We've Found Love — This 1978 cover became their signature hit, breaking the band into mainstream pop and R&B markets worldwide.
96° In The Shade — The title track from their 1977 album is a roots reggae masterpiece, celebrated for its political lyricism and complex musicality.
Try Jah Love — A 1982 collaboration with Stevie Wonder that exemplified their fusion style and earned them a Grammy nomination.
Sense of Purpose — A major 1990s hit that returned the band to chart prominence, showcasing their enduring ability to craft catchy, socially conscious music.
Throughout the 1980s, Third World continued to release successful albums like "Arise in Harmony" (1980) and "All the Way Strong" (1982) on Columbia Records. Their collaboration with Stevie Wonder on Try Jah Love in 1982 further cemented their reputation for sophisticated reggae fusion and earned a Grammy nomination. The band has persevered through lineup changes, including the passing of lead singer Bunny Rugs in 2014, and continues to record and tour, having released over twenty studio albums to date. For fans of Third World's vibrant blend of reggae with other genres, similar artists featured on our site include Steel Pulse This British roots reggae band shares a commitment to political themes and polished musicianship. Inner Circle Another Jamaican group known for crossover reggae hits and a long, influential career. Ziggy Marley Carries forward the legacy of conscious reggae with a modern, genre-blending approach. Aswad This UK band similarly fused reggae with pop and R&B, achieving major chart success in the same era.
Third World's timeless catalog remains a staple on reggae and classic hits radio stations across the globe. Their music is regularly featured on dedicated reggae FM stations, world music programs, and online radio streams that celebrate the history of Jamaican music.
The music of Third World can be heard on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover their iconic reggae fusion hits and deep cuts through the various radio stations available on onairium.com.
