Night Nurse - Gregory Issacs
Published on Jul 31, 2025
Gregory Isaacs – Biography of the Cool Ruler
Gregory Anthony Isaacs (July 15, 1951 – October 25, 2010) was a Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter, revered for his silky-smooth voice and emotionally rich delivery. Nicknamed the “Cool Ruler”, Isaacs became one of reggae’s most beloved and prolific artists, especially in the lovers rock genre.
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Born in Fletchers Land, Kingston, Jamaica.
First recorded under the name Winston Sinclair in 1968, but found success after teaming up with Errol Dunkley to form the African Museum label.
His early hit My Only Lover is considered the first lovers rock song ever recorded.
Rise to Stardom
Throughout the 1970s, Isaacs recorded for top producers like Lee "Scratch" Perry, Gussie Clarke, and Alvin Ranglin, releasing hits like:
Love Is Overdue
All I Have Is Love
Slavemaster (featured in the film Rockers)
By the late '70s, he was touring internationally and rivaling Bob Marley and Dennis Brown in popularity.