Mikey General is a British-born Jamaican reggae singer known for
his conscious lyrics, warm high tenor, and long-running connection
to roots reggae’s spiritual side. Born Michael Taylor, he moved
from England to Jamaica as a small child and grew up surrounded by
music, singing in school and church choirs before beginning to
voice on Kingston sound systems as a teenager. That early grounding
gave him the discipline and directness that would later define his
recordings: clear, devotional, and firmly rooted in Rastafari
values.
He first began recording in the 1970s, and after returning to
England in the early 1980s he built experience on the UK reggae
circuit, including work with major sound systems and touring
alongside artists such as Maxi Priest, Smiley Culture, and Papa
Levi. A turning point came in the 1990s when he reconnected with
Luciano and became part of Phillip “Fatis” Burrell’s Xterminator
circle, where the two singers developed a close musical partnership
and spent years touring together in Europe, Africa, and North
America. That association helped establish Mikey General as a
dependable roots vocalist with a distinct, uplifting voice.
His recorded catalogue reflects that reputation. Albums such as
Stronger Rastaman, Spiritual Revolution, Exalt Jah, Red, Green &
Gold, and Hailelujah Song helped define his style across the 2000s
and 2010s, balancing militant roots themes with a melodic,
reflective touch. Songs like “He That Keepeth Israel” and “Jah
Time” show his gift for turning faith-based messages into memorable
hooks, while later releases kept him active on both stage and
record. He has also continued to work with Luciano in various
projects and performances, reinforcing a partnership that has
remained central to his career.
Mikey General’s appeal lies in consistency. He is not a crossover
singer chasing trends, but an artist who has spent decades refining
a sound built on conscience, melody, and spiritual conviction.
Whether on classic albums or newer collaborations such as Breath Of
Life, he remains part of the enduring lineage of reggae singers who
treat the music as message as much as entertainment.
