THE COOL RULER RETURNS: GREGORY ISAACS MEETS SLY & ROBBIE ON REISSUED GEM ‘WORKING HARD’
Gregory Isaacs possessed one of reggae’s most exquisite voices. That quivering tenor could soothe and devastate in a single verse. Now VP Music Group has resurfaced Working Hard, a compelling digital reissue that reminds us why they called him The Cool Ruler.
This mid-1980s gem finds Isaacs teaming with producer George Phang and the legendary rhythm architects Sly & Robbie. The track reworks Burning Spear’s Rocking Time anthem, but Isaacs transforms it into his trademark sufferer’s lament. His voice glides effortlessly over the riddim, turning struggle into something almost beautiful.
THAT QUIVERING TENOR COULD SOOTHE AND DEVASTATE IN A SINGLE VERSE
The release includes both a dub version and an extended edit. These mixes come from the original Jamaican Power House 12-inch pressing, circa 1986. This was Isaacs in his post-Night Nurse prime, recording prolifically and working with Kingston’s finest producers.
His career spanned four decades. From Kingston talent shows in the late 1960s to lovers rock classics and roots meditations, Isaacs maintained remarkable consistency.
This reissue keeps his essential catalogue accessible for current listeners and future generations who deserve to discover The Cool Ruler’s elegant sound.
ABOUT GREGORY ISAACS
Gregory Isaacs built his career on fierce independence, co-founding the African Museum label with Errol Dunkley, and releasing essential lovers rock like My Only Lover. Throughout the 1970s, he worked with Lee Perry, Gussie Clarke, and other Jamaican legends, crafting roots anthems and aching ballads.
His 1982 breakthrough Night Nurse established him as reggae’s premier lovers singer. Later digital-era collaborations revitalised his sound. Honoured with Jamaica’s Order of Distinction, The Cool Ruler’s velvet voice continues to influence generations.
