Errol “Barkwood” Brown has passed away

When Black Roots came together in Bristol’s St Pauls district in 1979, they quickly carved out their own place in UK roots reggae. Their music carried a fearless Rastafarian message, tackled social and political issues head-on, and delivered it all with the kind of heavyweight sound that still resonates today.

Born in Jamaica, Errol grew up surrounded by reggae before spending time singing with soul groups. That combination gave his voice something special. It was warm, expressive, and full of feeling, sitting perfectly over Black Roots’ deep basslines, powerful riddims, and rich horn arrangements.

You’ll hear that unmistakable voice on classics like The Father, Survival, and War, along with countless other recordings spanning the band’s journey from their earliest releases in 1979 right through to their work in the 2020s. His contribution to Black Roots simply can’t be measured in words.

Alongside his fellow musicians, Errol helped put Bristol firmly on the map as one of the UK’s great roots reggae cities. Black Roots inspired generations of sound systems, dub artists, and musicians, leaving a mark that stretched well beyond reggae into Bristol’s wider bass music culture.

For everyone who had the privilege of meeting him, Errol will also be remembered as a genuinely humble man. On stage he sang with conviction and purpose, but away from the spotlight he carried himself with kindness and quiet dignity.

As we remember Errol, we also pay tribute to the other founding members of Black Roots who have gone before him: bassist Derrick King, drummer Trevor Seivwright, and powerhouse vocalist Charles Bryan, better known as Delroy Ogilvie. Each helped shape the band’s remarkable legacy, and together they built one of the most important chapters in British roots reggae history.

Our thoughts are with Errol’s family, friends, bandmates, and the many fans around the world whose lives were touched by his music. His voice may now be silent, but the songs, the message, and the spirit of Black Roots will continue to resonate for generations to come.

(Photo contributed)