Yasus Afari

Yasus Afari, born John Sinclair, ranks among Jamaica’s foremost dub poets. A childhood companion of record producer Garnet Silk, Afari joined forces with Silk on numerous commercially successful releases, among them several singles cut alongside Maxi Priest. He has also supplied background vocals and dub poetry for Everton Lender, General Degree, and Tony Rebel. His mother furnished much of his initial creative drive by praying that he would enjoy “a better life.” Displaying notable academic promise early on, Afari distinguished himself at St. Elizabeth Technical High School. After taking a job as a repair technician with the Jamaican telephone company, he later resumed his studies upon earning a scholarship to the College of Arts, Science And Technology. During his time there, his political awareness deepened; although chosen vice president of the student council, he turned down the post on account of his anti-conformist stance.

While still enrolled, Afari began appearing regularly at the University of The West Indies as well as at a nursing school and a teachers college. Following graduation, his prospects declined sharply. The poor sales of his debut single, issued only on cassette, prompted a period of meditation and withdrawal. His trajectory improved once he linked up with Silk again. Honored with the title “Dub Poet Of The Year” in 1993, Afari subsequently traveled across the United States and the Pacific Islands alongside Black Uhuru.