The late Garfield Blackman (October 6, 1941–July 12, 2000)—known first as Lord Shorty and later as Ras Shorty I—gifted the global music community two monumental creations: Soca and Jamoo. Today, Soca continues to evolve, but many artists use the name to promote music that has drifted far from the original sound Lord Shorty crafted. Jamoo, however, remains untouched in its purity.

Jamoo has often been called “Jehovah’s Music,” a spiritual direction Lord Shorty embraced after becoming disenchanted with the early trajectory of Soca. As the creator of Soca, he believed he was uniquely positioned to guide the music into a new phase—one rooted in faith, upliftment, and introspection. What emerged was a distinctive sound: sweet, mellow, spiritually charged, and lyrically powerful enough to change lives.

Perhaps this approach is why Jamoo hasn’t been widely adopted by today’s artists—there's no bacchanal, no scandal, no shock value. Instead, Jamoo offers thought‑provoking lyrics meant to awaken the spirit. And for that, we remain blessed and grateful that Lord Shorty, who became Ras Shorty I, gave us this extraordinary music.

His legacy lives on through The Love Circle, his children who continue to preserve and perform Jamoo with authenticity and devotion.

This post wasn’t originally intended as a tribute to Jamoo. It began as a platform to highlight one of Ras Shorty I’s songs, “Push the Creator Out.” While reflecting on Trinidad’s current challenges—especially the rise in crime—I revisited two of his powerful works: “Watch Out My Children,” famously used by the United Nations in its anti‑drug campaign, and “Push the Creator Out.” The latter feels prophetic, a warning delivered through melody and message.

Yes, it is Jamoo—carrying the unmistakable sound of Ras Shorty I and The Love Circle. Jamoo blends gospel warmth and reggae undertones, but above all, it uplifts the soul and encourages positive transformation.

Enjoy the music of the man and his children as they perform this classic. Listen closely to the message. He saw the trouble coming long before it arrived, and today, his words echo through the challenges facing Trinbago’s society.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). No copyright infringement is intended! .  We encourage you to promote the artists and their music; please don't share the music and rob the artists of needed income!
♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).