Biography
Born Gladstone Fisher around 1953 in Jamaica, the future DJ began his career spinning records for multiple sound systems before adopting the name Jah Stone for his initial recordings alongside Bim Sherman. When Sherman launched the Scorpio imprint in 1977, limited funds prompted him to have Jah Stone lay two distinct vocal chants across one rhythm, yielding the popular dancehall sides “Fat Ting” and “Burning.” The exposure opened doors to producer Alvin “GG” Ranglin, who paired the DJ with Freddie McKay on a new version of “Picture On The Wall” and featured him solo on the hit “Ten Ton Woman.” Jah Stone also appeared on Sonia Pottinger’s revival of the Sensations’ “Baby Love.” The following year he voiced “Militant Dread” during sessions for Doctor Alimantado. In 1979, working with Winston Jarrett of the Righteous Flames, he cut “War” and “Kaya,” tracks later included on The Messiah album. That set also contained the cautionary “Sergeant Black,” the eccentric “Kung Fu Ballet,” and the swaggering “Irie Lickle Filly.” Although the LP marked the end of his recording activity and he had collaborated with several Jamaican producers, Jah Stone remained best remembered simply as the deejay who worked with Bim Sherman. Interest revived in 1997 when a Freddie McKay compilation showcased Jah Stone’s contributions and highlighted his range.