Millie Small

Millie Small (1946-2020) was a Jamaican singer best known for her role in popularizing ska music, a precursor to reggae. Born in Clarendon, Jamaica, she gained international fame with her 1964 hit "My Boy Lollipop," which became a major success in the UK and the US, reaching the top of the charts. The song, co-written by Robert Spencer and produced by Chris Blackwell, showcased her distinctive voice and introduced a wider audience to the upbeat rhythms of ska. Small's music blended elements of Jamaican folk and rhythm and blues, helping to bridge the gap between Caribbean music and mainstream pop. While "My Boy Lollipop" remains her most notable work, she released several other singles and albums, including "Sweet William" and "Enoch Power." Her impact on music is significant, as she played a crucial role in the ska movement and influenced later reggae artists. Small's success opened doors for other Jamaican musicians in the global market, and she is often credited with paving the way for the reggae genre's broader acceptance in the 1970s. Her contributions continue to be celebrated in the history of Caribbean music.