Jamaican bass guitarist and record producer, Robbie Shakespeare, is widely recognized as a pivotal figure in the reggae music scene, having collaborated with numerous renowned artists as half of the renowned reggae rhythm section and production duo, Sly and Robbie, alongside drummer Sly Dunbar. Regarded by many as one of the most influential reggae bassists of all time, Shakespeare's innovative use of electronics and production effects units has left an indelible mark on the genre.
Throughout his illustrious career, Shakespeare has had the privilege of working alongside a diverse array of reggae artists, including the legendary U-Roy, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Sugar Minott, Augustus Pablo, Yellowman, and Black Uhuru. His impressive production portfolio also extends beyond the reggae genre, having worked with a wide range of pop and rock artists, such as the iconic Mick Jagger, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Cyndi Lauper, Joe Cocker, Yoko Ono, Serge Gainsbourg, and the enigmatic Grace Jones.
Prior to his tenure with Sly and Robbie, Shakespeare was an integral part of the esteemed session groups, the Revolutionaries and the Aggrovators, honing his craft and laying the groundwork for his future success.