Errol Dunkley - O.K. Fred 7" picture sleeve SIngle

Errol Dunkley's 1979 7" Single "OK Fred," a cover of John Holt's song, made a significant impact on the UK Singles Chart during the vibrant late '70s reggae scene. This chart-topping success reflects reggae's growing influence in the UK. The choice lof the 7" format with a picture sleeve not only contributes to the era's music trends but also solidifies the song's lasting significance in the history of reggae. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

 

High Resolution Photos of errol dunkley ok fred single

"OK Fred" Record Description:

Errol Dunkley's rendition of "OK Fred" stands as a notable contribution within the context of the late 1970s, a period marked by dynamic shifts in the music landscape, particularly in the realm of reggae. The 7" single release, housed in a distinctive picture sleeve, encapsulates the vibrancy and diversity of the musical scene during that time.

The cover version of John Holt's composition not only showcases Dunkley's vocal prowess but also highlights the interplay of different influences within the reggae genre. Dunkley, a Jamaican reggae artist, brings his unique style and interpretation to "OK Fred," infusing it with his signature sound that resonated with audiences globally.

The year 1979 was a pivotal moment for reggae in the UK, as the genre gained widespread popularity and recognition. Dunkley's "OK Fred" became a chart-topping success, making its mark on the UK Singles Chart. The single's inclusion in this influential chart during such a significant era solidifies its place in the chronicles of reggae music's impact on the global stage.

The choice of a 7" single format, accompanied by a picture sleeve, reflects the prevailing trends in music production and distribution during the late 1970s. This format was not only a popular means of delivering music to listeners but also served as a tangible and collectible artifact. The picture sleeve, in particular, adds an aesthetic dimension to the release, providing fans with a visual representation of the artist and the era.

Beyond its chart success, Dunkley's rendition of "OK Fred" contributes to the broader narrative of reggae's evolution and cross-cultural influence. The song's popularity in the UK signifies the genre's ability to transcend geographical boundaries and find resonance in diverse musical landscapes.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

Reggae, Dub, Dance, Disco

Collector Notes / Liner Notes
  • Collector Note: P/S Picture Sleeve
  • Collector Note: Rare French import
Label & Catalognr:

Celluloid – CEL1‑6502

Media Format:

7" Single, PS Picture Sleeve

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. O.K. Fred (John Holt)
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Rush me no badness (Errol Dunkley)

Errol Dunkley - O.K. Fred Album Photo Gallery:

Album Front Cover Photo
Front cover of the 7 inch single 'OK Fred' by Errol Dunkley. The artist stands with arms crossed in front of a textured white net-like backdrop, wearing a cream sweater, plaid trousers, dark-framed glasses, and a confident expression. Title and artist name are printed in red and blue at the right.

Front cover of the 7" vinyl single "O.K. Fred" by Errol Dunkley.

The cover features a full-color photograph of Errol Dunkley standing confidently with his arms crossed over his chest. He wears large dark-rimmed glasses, a cream-colored sweater over a collared shirt with a wide brown collar, and checked brown trousers. His expression is subtle but self-assured, with his lips pursed in a relaxed, almost cheeky smirk.

Behind him, a dramatic, high-contrast woven fabric curtain in white and black forms a dynamic backdrop that spreads from top to bottom. The edges of the fabric on the right side are frayed in an intentional design, resembling unraveling threads or fringe.

The artist's name Errol Dunkley is printed in bold light-blue block letters on the right-hand side of the cover, below the title O.K. FRED written in bright red uppercase letters. The bold typography and textured background give the cover a distinctly late-70s artistic aesthetic, capturing both the rebellious spirit and cool composure of reggae’s golden era.

Side One Close up of record’s label
Side One of Errol Dunkley's 7 inch single 'OK Fred' on Celluloid label. White center label with black text, catalog number CEL1-6502, SACEM logo, and credit to composer John Holt. 45 RPM stereo pressing marked 'Face A'.

Close-up of Side One label of the 7" vinyl single "O.K. Fred" by Errol Dunkley.

The image displays the record's A-side pressed on black vinyl, featuring a clean, white center label with minimalistic black typography. Dominating the top is the bold, rounded celluloïd logo, indicating the French label that issued this pressing.

Below the logo, the catalog number CEL1 - 6502 is listed on the left. Just under that are the markings "Stéréo" and "45 tours", confirming that this is a 45 RPM stereo single. On the right side of the label, it reads "FACE A", with the SACEM logo printed underneath, denoting the French copyright collection agency.

Centered toward the bottom is the artist name ERROL DUNKLEY, followed by the title of the track O.K. FRED, with songwriting credit to John Holt printed directly below in parentheses.

The outer edge of the label includes fine-print legal information in French, confirming rights for reproduction and distribution, a characteristic typical of French pressings during this era.

Index of ERROL DUNKLEY Album Cover Gallery & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information

About Errol Dunkley

Errol Dunkley is one of the foundational voices of Jamaican reggae, known for his soulful delivery and smooth vocal phrasing that helped define the early roots and lovers rock movements. Born in Kingston in 1951, Dunkley began recording as a teenager during the ska-to-rocksteady transition and quickly made a name for himself with hits like "You're Gonna Need Me" and "Black Cinderella."

His career took flight in the late 1960s and flourished through the 1970s, as he worked with pioneering producers such as Joe Gibbs, Coxsone Dodd, and Bunny Lee. In 1979, Dunkley achieved his greatest commercial success with his version of John Holt’s "O.K. Fred", a cheeky, upbeat lovers tune that broke into the UK charts and brought reggae further into the pop mainstream.

Errol Dunkley's smooth blend of romantic lyrics, conscious themes, and danceable grooves continues to resonate with reggae lovers worldwide. With a career spanning over five decades, his music remains a warm, melodic window into Jamaica’s golden era of sound system culture and studio innovation.

Errol Dunkley - O.K. Fred 12" Vinyl LP

Release in 1979, "O.K. Fred" by Errol Dunkley is a standout lovers rock reggae album that blends sweet melodies, dub grooves, and disco flair. Recorded at Kingston’s Channel One Studios and backed by legendary session musicians, this French pressing brought Jamaican vibes to international audiences and climbed the UK charts with charm and soul.

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Errol Dunkley - O.K. Fred 7" Vinyl Single

Errol Dunkley’s 7" single "OK Fred" captures the sweet blend of Lovers Rock and reggae charm that made it a UK hit in the early ’80s. This vintage pressing features Dunkley's smooth vocals riding a laid-back groove, filled with Channel One warmth and romantic swagger—an essential gem for fans of classic island soul on wax.

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