Born Sydney Watson in St. Ann, Jamaica in 1958, Congo Billy enters his third decade as one of the most accomplished percussionists in Jamaica’s music history. He has delivered impressive great drum sounds while performing internationally and recording with some of reggae music’s greatest musical talents including recording artists Jimmy Cliff, and Luciano “ The Messenger”’, saxophonist Dean Fraser , guitarist Glen Browne, and Winston ‘’Bo Pee’’ Bowen.
Congo Billy has been writing songs since he was 14. His musical talents became apparent when he started playing the Congo drums at 17. Congo Billy’s first professional engagement was with the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC) of Jamaica as their first drummer and touring with them extensively around the world. It was during that time he acquired the name ‘’Congo Billy.’’ In the 1980’s, he began to develop his expertise as a Master drummer working with the Jamaica School of Dance, the Jamaica School of Music and administering drumming workshops throughout Jamaica and England.
In 1988, Congo Billy began his professional career as a performing and recording percussionist when he joined Reggae artist Jimmy Cliff’s band recording on the Hanging Fire Album.
In 1999, he continued with his musical journey when he was recruited in Luciano’s, Jah Messenger band, in which he did some performing and recording. His musical talents as a drummer can be heard on the CD ‘Serve Jah’.
Congo Billy is a former percussionist of the Black Soil Band under the leadership of saxophonist Dean Fraser and singer Tarrus Riley.
As a Rasta man who gives thanks to the Almighty God, Congo Billy gets ready to add another chapter to his musical career as a singer and songwriter. His debut CD includes the songs, “Where Is the love, I Give Thanks and I Wanna Love You.” Congo Billy is truly a man of love with all aspects of music. His creativity will continue to be a blessing to all.
