A plaque has been erected in honour of Dennis Brown (Photo by Thabo Jaiyesimi)

Commemorative tablet placed outside former home of renowned Jamaican artist

Family and friends of Dennis Brown (Photo by Thabo Jaiyesimi)

A blue plaque has been unveiled outside the Harlesden house where a renowned Jamaican reggae singer lived for six years.

The tribute to Dennis Brown on Hazeldean Road, was revealed on Saturday by Nubian Jak Community Trust (NJCT), who funded the commemorative tablet.

Mr Brown was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and recorded more than 150 albums, scoring a string of international hits including ‘money in my pocket’ and ‘love has found its way’ after launching his professional career at the age of 11.

The married father-of-13, who died from pneumonia at the age of 42 in 1999 in Jamaica, lived at the house with his brother Leroy between 1993 until 1999.

On Saturday, Mr Brown’s widow Yvonne and brother were at the unveiling ceremony which was also attended by his relatives, Anthony Johnson, High Commissioner for Jamaica, Cllr Aslam Choudry, Brent Mayor, and a number of reggae musicians.

Leroy Brown said: “This is a timeless and international recognition for an artist who has contributed so much to the development and evolution of reggae music, both in Jamaica and worldwide.”

The Nubian Jak Community Trust Plaque Scheme, which is based in Kilburn, is the only national black and ethnic minority plaque and sculpture scheme in the UK.

Jak Beula, founder of NJCT said: “Although Dennis was acknowledged as the ‘crown prince of reggae’ within the record industry, to many people who listened to his music, he was the people’s champion.”

For more information about the scheme call 0800 093 0400, visit www.nubianjak.com or email info@nubianjak.com