‘Envious’, the 1975 album by singer Keith Poppin, has been re-released by Aggrobeat Records, an independent company based in The Netherlands. It officially came out digitally and on vinyl in early September.
Produced by Phil Pratt, the 10-song set was recorded entirely at Channel One studios in Kingston. Poppin was backed by a strong cast of musicians including bass guitarists Aston “Familyman” Barrett and Robbie Shakespeare; drummers Carlton Barrett and Leroy “Horsemouth” Wallace; guitarists Earl “Chinna” Smith and Rad Bryan.
Two songs — ‘Envious’ and ‘Mother-In-Law’ — were released from the album. Poppin, who lives in North Carolina, says the album’s second coming gives fans an opportunity to listen to his second album.
“People still love ‘Envious’ (the song) but some people never hear the entire album. So, this is good for them to hear where the music is coming from,” said Poppin.
Pratt, who died in the United Kingdom last February, also produced ‘Same Thing for Breakfast’, Poppin’s breakthrough song which was released in 1973.
Born Keith Smith in Westmoreland parish, western Jamaica, Poppin moved to the capital Kingston as a teenager. He was raised in Allman Town, a middle-class community that produced acts like BB Seaton of The Gaylads, Carl Dawkins and Horace Andy.
During the 1970s, he was among a group of artists who hung out in the downtown Kingston area known as Beat Street/Idler’s Rest. Others included Gregory Isaacs and Freddie McKay.
For over 30 years, Poppin has lived in the United States where he continues to record songs and perform in countries like the United Kingdom. His most recent songs include ‘Africa Calling’ and ‘Rocking’.
