Sixty-seven years is a long time in the music industry, a business that has been unkind to countless artists. For Audley Rollen, his six decades as a singer/songwriter have been enjoyable.
On March 30, the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) recognizes his contribution by presenting Rollen with a Special Diamond Award. He will receive the accolade during the ceremony at Coral Springs Center for The Arts in South Florida.
“I’m humbled to be recognized for over 65 years in the entertainment industry. First off, 65 years is a lifetime, and not many people get to do something they love and enjoy doing for such a long time,” said Rollen. “Looking back on all the lives I’ve touched and the contribution I’ve made that has helped to shape the development and growth of reggae music, I give thanks to IRAMWA.”
The 73-year-old artist has a storied, yet understated career. Rollen is among a handful of surviving acts who performed on the Vere Johns Opportunity Hour, a groundbreaking talent contest that gave famous acts like Alton Ellis and John Holt their start.
In the 1960s and 1970s, he recorded songs for producers such as Keith Hudson and Lloyd “Matador” Daley. Rollen was also a member of The Hippy Boys and Youth Professionals, bands that included musicians like bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett, his brother, drummer Carlton Barrett, bassist Robbie Shakespeare and keyboardist Bernard “Touter” Harvey.
Since the mid-1970s, Rollen has lived in the United States. He currently resides in South Florida where he is an ordained minister of religion and continues to record music.
“The secret to my longevity is first off being blessed by God, who had a purpose for my life and watched over me as I grew up in almost every town in Kingston, where I honed the skills and the love of my craft that enabled me to remain consistent and relevant musically,” he said.