Andrew Robinson

Before hooking up with the Vital Roots Band, lead vocalist Andrew Robinson has already accomplished what only a few had. A Jamaican native himself, he dominated the North Coast cabaret scene in Jamaica with his piercing vocal prowess that later earned him the spotlight with some of the most respected names in Jamaican music and visiting international artists including Randy Crawford. He has toured the USA and Europe as a solo artist and with "Kotch" leaving indelible impressions behind.

Leon "Mandela" Duncan

bassist and a native of Kingston Jamaica, has been in a few prominent circles as far as music goes. He has played with the crème de la crème of Jamaican and international musicians. Being the multi-faceted player he is, equally at home in any music genre has made him first choice for a wide array of artist including Monty Alexander, Ernest Ranglin with whom he had a three year tenure, Patrice, Swiss Musical Orchestra, etc. He has also toured extensively and it's safe to say he has peers but no superiors.

Izrah Williams

Lead Singer, guitarist and St. Lucian native Izrah Williams, has made waves of achievement with his flamboyant vocal style and multi-instrumental abilities. He collaborated with the monumental Earl Chinna Smith and the rest of the Melody Makers to produce his debut CD between 1993 and 1994 in Kingston Jamaica. He has been the recipient of numerous accolades locally and internationally.

Richard "Drummie" Beckford

Initially a quartet, now a sextet the Vital Roots Band consists of drummer founding member and St. Ann native, Richard "Drummie" Beckford who also had stints with various artists local and inter-national. He's driving force and an asset to any band.

Nickoy "Goldspoon" Goldson

keyboardist and another St. Ann native emerged onto the scene and in no time was a player constantly in demand. He has perfor-med or recorded with the likes of Rita Marley, Cocoa Tea, Shaka Demus & Pliers among others and a source of inspiration for his peers.

Desmond Meyer

The latest member, guitarist and South African national Desmond Meyer, has won the admiration of his fellow peers with his suave fretboard abilities and sublime acoustic timbre. His debut CD which he recorded in the later part of 1999 clearly illustrates his quest for musical explorations and simultaneously paying homage to his roots. His disc has reached numerous airplays especially in his homeland South Africa, evoking the interest of major local labels. Desmond has come a long way and his scope is ever-widening.

May 2002