Born in Manchester (Jamaica) on April 28, Degree often had to hide as a child from his strict christian parents in order to get a taste of what was happening on the airwaves. It was only a few years later in his early 20’s, that Degree was hitting those same airwaves with his brilliant imitation of a grandmother in his first number one hit ‘Granny’- his first recording for Main Street producer Danny Browne. ‘Granny’ reigned in the dances and charts for one year straight, and that humorous vine has thrived throughout Degree’s career and is a component he naturally possesses.
Degree’s impressive parade of number one hits continued both at home and abroad, and lends great credence to the fact that he certainly does know what he’s talking about. Tunes such as ‘Granny, Brinks, Mr Dweet Nice, Bodyguard, Papa Lover, Hold Yuh Tonight, Spark plug and countless others have had fans skanking .
General Degree is also renowned for his provocative lyrics that always leave just enough up to the imagination. The little they do leave, is also plenty for them not to be certified XXX-rated. Girls crying for his ‘Pianist’ is the perfect example of a Degree double-entendre, that gets his earthy message across whilst leaving the censors with nothing to do. The reason why Degree’s suggestiveness works so well is because of the pure invention in his work.
Formerly he was known as General Degree, but later he’s shortened his name to Degree. |
