Gray: Owen

: In 2023, the Jamaican government awarded him the Order of Distinction for his lifelong contributions to the nation's music. Recent Passing

: In 1957, he won the popular talent show "Vere John's Opportunity Hour," a precursor to modern shows like The X Factor . owen gray

Listen to the classic soulful sound that defined his career in this medley of hits: : In 2023, the Jamaican government awarded him

: Gray was the first artist to praise a sound system on record with his 1959 hit "On the Beach," celebrating Sir Coxsone Downbeat . Musical Legacy : In 2023