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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZELLIS, Alton & HortenseBrother and sister Jamaican vocal duo. Alton (b '39, Kingston, Jamaica) was one of the island's musical pioneers in the development of rock steady and reggae. Formed duo with Eddie Perkins known as Alton & Eddie in '50s; hit with "Muriel' '59 was first of a series of regional hits. Perkins went to the USA; Ellis worked in Jamaica with John Holt. Formed group called the Flames, playing and touring '60s incl. Britain '67 with the Soul Vendors. Later lived in Canada for over three years where he played soul music. Moved to England '73. Sister Hortense (b '49, Kingston, Jamaica) was recording by the early '60s. Like her brother, with whom she also recorded as a duo, she recorded for Studio One in the '60s. She had hits over two decades although she never recorded as much as Alton. Compilation Alton & Hortense Ellis on Heartbeat '90 was a good anthology of their Studio One output both solo and duo. |