Maxi Priest

Maxi Priest achieved significant international recognition in 1990 with his track ‘Close to You,’ which became a US Billboard number one hit, making him one of only two British reggae acts to reach this milestone. Known for pioneering reggae fusion, blending traditional reggae with R&B influences, Priest’s professional music career began with independent single releases like ‘Sensi’ with Papa Levi, establishing his presence within both dancehall and conscious roots reggae communities. His debut major album, Maxi (1988), further solidified his position as a prominent British reggae singer, featuring his notable cover of Cat Stevens’ ‘Wild World,’ which reached number 5 in the UK and 25 in the US, and showcased collaborations with rhythm section legends Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare. Following his chart-topping success, Priest continued to expand his reach with a duet with Roberta Flack, ‘Set the Night to Music,’ which became an American Top Ten hit in 1991.

Maxi Priest remains an influential force, continuing to shape the landscape of reggae and R&B fusion.