Maxi Priest is a British reggae and pop singer, born on June 10, 1960, in Lewisham, London. He is known for his smooth, soulful voice and his ability to blend reggae with pop and R&B influences. Priest rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, becoming one of the first reggae artists to achieve mainstream success in the UK and the US. His notable works include the hit singles "Close to You," "Wild World," and "Set the Night to Music," the latter a duet with Roberta Flack. His 1990 album "Maxi Priest" and the 1992 album "Bonafide" received critical acclaim and commercial success, with "Bonafide" featuring the chart-topping single "That Girl," a collaboration with Shabba Ranks. Priest's impact on music lies in his role as a bridge between reggae and mainstream pop, helping to popularize reggae in a broader context. He has been nominated for several awards, including a Grammy, and continues to influence artists across genres with his unique sound and style. His contributions have solidified his status as a significant figure in the reggae genre.