The Gladiators

Bio

The Gladiators are a Jamaican roots reggae group formed in Kingston in 1968. Originally a vocal trio consisting of Albert Griffiths, Clinton Fearon and Gallimore Sutherland, they became one of the leading harmony groups of the roots era, recording for producers such as Coxsone Dodd and Prince Tony Robinson. Their 1976 album Trenchtown Mix Up and the 1978 release Proverbial Reggae established their reputation for socially conscious lyrics and tight vocal arrangements. After several line-up changes, Albert Griffiths remained the guiding force, steering the band through the 1980s and 1990s while maintaining a strong international touring presence. Their music blends classic rocksteady harmonies with the heavier rhythms of roots reggae and later touches of dub and dancehall, influencing subsequent generations of Jamaican harmony groups.