OLDIES SUNDAY: Chuck Turner – I Need You (1988)

On “Oldies Sunday“, we celebrate the Singers. The ones who know how to add melodies to the songs we enjoy. No matter their level, there’s an audience for them. Today’s selection comes from a Singer who many consider underrated. He goes by the name Chuck Turner, and we feature his track, “I Need You“.

Produced by King Jammy’s on the “I Need You Riddim“/”Cat Paw Riddim” and released through Jammy’s Records in 1988, “I Need You” is Chuck Turner’s Dancehall cover of the 1985 hit single by the late Singer and founder of Earth, Wind & Fire, Maurice White. Turner makes the original track his with his unique vocals, handling the Riddim provided properly throughout. “I Need You” quickly became a hit, and gave Turner opportunities to perform the track in Jamaica, throughout the Caribbean, and other parts of the world. The track would later be featured on Turner’s “One The Hard Way” album, and on numerous compilations.

Since the release of “I Need You”, Chuck Turner became of the standout voices of the 80’s Dancehall scene. He released more music in the 1990s, and is still active in the music business. He was involved in a couple near-death experiences, made an appearance at the popular Rebel Salute event, and even reunited with King Jammy’s in the late 2010s. “I Need You” is his biggest hit, and is still played around the world.