Put the Stereo On, Gappy Ranks

Gappy Ranks

Birth Name:
Jacob Lee Williams

Born:
Harlesden, London, England

Genre:
Reggae

Years Active:
'00s, '10s

Gappy Ranks

Biography

Recalling the '90s — the heyday of British artists like Maxi Priest and Bitty McLean — singer Gappy Ranks brings U.K. reggae to the world. Born Jacob Lee Williams, the London-based artist was struggling to keep from being homeless when his career began, but working with radio and playing numerous live shows helped him step up. In 2009 he signed with Greensleeves, releasing his debut album for the label, Put the Stereo On, in 2010. The throwback effort was filled with nostalgia for the reggae of the '60s, but his 2011 release, Thanks & Praise, was more forward-thinking, featuring many dancehall cuts and a sure R&B influence. His 2013 release, Shining Hope, continued to blend genres and included the Bob Marley tribute "Everything's Gonna Be Alright." . Recalling the '90s — the heyday of British artists like Maxi Priest and Bitty McLean — singer Gappy Ranks brings U.K. reggae to the world. Born Jacob Lee Williams, the London-based artist was struggling to keep from being homeless when his career began, but working with radio and playing numerous live shows helped him step up. In 2009 he signed with Greensleeves, releasing his debut album for the label, Put the Stereo On, in 2010. The throwback effort was filled with nostalgia for the reggae of the '60s, but his 2011 release, Thanks & Praise, was more forward-thinking, featuring many dancehall cuts and a sure R&B influence. His 2013 release, Shining Hope, continued to blend genres and included the Bob Marley tribute "Everything's Gonna Be Alright."