Chris Blackwell

UK producer born in London, 22 June 1937. He spent his childhood in Jamaica. As a young man he returned to London, where he realised there was a market for reggae and dub. He founded [l=Island Records] to license this music for the UK, and for publishing. Islands first proper signing was [a=The Spencer Davis Group]. The label flourished as an indie in the 70s and 80s, introducing [a=Bob Marley & The Wailers] and [a=U2] to the world. In 1992, he and [a=Joe Galdo] founded [l=South Beach Studios]. Island became part of a major in the late 80s. Blackwell eventually handed over the reigns of Island Records to the Polygram label group and formed [l=Palm Pictures]. This new company now incorporates several brands, from Blue Mountain Music to Island Outpost (high-end Jamaican holiday resorts).

Inducted into Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 (Non-Performer).

Do not confuse with [a=Robert Plant]'s drummer, [a=Chris Blackwell (2)] or the British prolific arranger, composer [a=Charles Blackwell].