BERES HAMMOND’S ‘JUST A MAN’: WHY THIS 1979 GEM STILL HITS HARD
Before Beres Hammond became the soul of lover’s rock, he poured his heart into Just a Man—a hypnotic fusion of disco, soul, and reggae. Released in 1979, this album captures Hammond’s raw talent at a crossroads in his career. Fresh out of Zap Pow, he embarked on a solo journey, and this record was his bold declaration of independence.
Just a Man stands out for its daring blend of genres. Tracks like Do This World A Favour, a UK soul hit, showcase Hammond’s ability to weave tender emotion into irresistible grooves.
Meanwhile, hidden gems like Keep My Wheel Turning spotlight his knack for genre-hopping, layering funky rhythms with his signature velvety vocals.
PRODUCED BY THE LEGENDARY JOE GIBBS, THE ALBUM BRINGS SOME OF JAMAICA’S FINEST MUSICIANS
Produced by the legendary Joe Gibbs and arranged by Willie Lindo, the album brings together some of Jamaica’s finest musicians. Their craftsmanship elevates every track, wrapping Hammond’s heartfelt lyrics in rich, textured soundscapes.
This remastered edition breathes new life into the record, making its lush melodies and disco-infused reggae rhythms even more magnetic.
For fans of Jamaican music history—or anyone seeking an album that transcends time—Just a Man offers a soulful escape.
Dive into this lesser-known treasure, and hear the beginnings of a legend carving his path. Just a Man isn’t just an album—it’s the whole experience.
ALBUM CREDITS
Bass: Val Douglas, Mike Chung
Drums: Mike Richards, Robert Stephenson, Calvin McKenzie
Electric Piano: Robert Lyn, Franklyn Waul, Harold Butler
Guitar: Lenox Gordon, Willie Lindo
Backing Vocals: Pam Hall, Prilly Hamilton, Sharon Forrester, Beres Hammond
Percussion: Franklyn Waul, Clive Hunt, Noel Seale
Piano: Clive Hunt, Franklyn Waul, Harold Butler
Saxophone: Dean Fraser
Strings: Peter Ashbourne Group
Trombone: Jerome Francque, Roland Robinson
Horns, Trumpet: David Madden, Willie Brackenridge, Clive Hunt
ABOUT BERES HAMMOND
Beres Hammond, a Jamaican music legend, is known for his soulful voice that blends rocksteady and R&B. Gaining fame in the 1980s and 90s with hits like What One Dance Can Do, he addresses love and social issues through his music.
His albums, like Love from a Distance and One Love, One Life, showcase his versatility and lasting impact on reggae.
