Five of the best from Maxi Priest
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1. Bonafide (1990)
The 1990 album, Bonafide, stands out in his discography, solidifying his reputation in the reggae and pop music scenes. The album features the chart-topping hit “Close to You,” which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. This success marked Maxi Priest as a global music sensation. The album blends reggae with R&B and pop, showcasing Priest’s versatile vocal abilities and smooth style.
Produced by notable names such as Sly Dunbar and Handel Tucker, Bonafide is characterized by its polished production and catchy melodies. The album’s commercial success was further evidenced by its gold certification in the United States. Maxi Priest’s ability to infuse reggae rhythms with mainstream appeal is evident throughout the tracks, making Bonafide a favorite among fans and critics. This album is a must-listen for those who appreciate reggae with pop influences, and it remains a pivotal release in Maxi Priest’s career.
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2. Man With the Fun (1996)
The 1996 album, Man With the Fun, is a defining moment in his career, showcasing his ability to blend reggae with mainstream pop and R&B. The album features the hit single “That Girl,” a collaboration with Shaggy that achieved significant airplay and chart success. Man With the Fun highlights Maxi Priest’s smooth vocal delivery and catchy melodies, appealing to a broad audience.
Produced by a team including Sly & Robbie and Handel Tucker, the album maintains a polished sound that enhances its commercial appeal. The Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album underscores its impact in the reggae genre. With its infectious rhythms and accessible lyrics, Man With the Fun exemplifies Maxi Priest’s talent for creating music that resonates across different musical tastes. This album remains a standout in his discography, reflecting his enduring influence in reggae and pop music. Fans of Maxi Priest will find this album a must-have for its seamless fusion of genres and memorable tracks.
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3. Maxi (1988)
The 1988 album, Maxi, is a pivotal release that established him as a significant figure in the reggae and pop music scenes. Featuring tracks like “Wild World,” a cover of the Cat Stevens classic, the album successfully blends reggae rhythms with mainstream pop appeal. This, helped Maxi Priest gain considerable airplay and recognition, especially in the United States.
Produced in part by reggae legends Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, the album showcases Maxi Priest’s smooth vocal style and ability to cross musical boundaries. The production quality of Maxi is polished, with infectious melodies and engaging lyrics that appeal to a wide audience. This album marks a crucial point in Maxi Priest’s career, highlighting his versatility and broad musical influences.
Maxi is an essential album for fans of reggae and pop music. It captures the essence of Maxi Priest’s unique sound and continues to be celebrated for its contribution to the music industry.
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4. Fe Real (1992)
The 1992 album, Fe Real, is a notable release that blends reggae with elements of R&B and pop, reflecting the artist’s versatility and broad musical appeal. The collaborations with high-profile artists, including a duet with Roberta Flack on “Set the Night to Music,” garnered significant attention and showcased Priest’s smooth vocal delivery.
Produced by a team that includes Handel Tucker and Sly & Robbie, Fe Real is characterized by its polished sound and infectious rhythms. The album captures Maxi Priest’s ability to seamlessly merge different genres, making it a favorite among reggae and mainstream music fans. With its catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, Fe Real received positive reviews and solidified Maxi Priest’s reputation as a leading figure in the reggae and pop music scenes.
This album remains a key part of Maxi Priest’s discography, reflecting his continued influence and success in the music industry. Fans of reggae and pop will find Fe Real an essential listen, highlighting the artist’s unique blend of styles and enduring appeal.
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5. CombiNation (1999)
Maxi Priest’s 1999 album, CombiNation, showcases his mastery of blending reggae with hip-hop, R&B, and pop elements. Featuring collaborations with artists like Beenie Man and Degree, the album offers a vibrant mix of styles highlighting his versatility. The production, handled by notable producers such as Danny Browne and D’Influence, ensures a polished and engaging sound.
CombiNation exemplifies Maxi Priest’s ability to create infectious rhythms and memorable melodies, appealing to a wide audience. This album remains a significant part of his discography, reflecting his continued influence and success in the reggae and pop music scenes.
Click here to purchase CombiNation