Peter Spence (b. December 21, 1962, Birmingham, England) is a reggae singer and songwriter whose work bridges lovers rock, roots, and gospel.
Early Life & Musical Beginnings
Born in Birmingham to Jamaican parents, Spence grew up in a musical household. His father, who had played in bands in Jamaica before relocating to the UK, taught him guitar at a young age
In the early 1980s, Spence started out as a drummer and rhythm guitarist with a local band called The Experts. nspired by Jamaican harmony groups like The Heptones and The Tamlins, he made the transition to lead vocals and joined a reggae sound-system in Birmingham called Warrior (also referred to as Warrior / Imperial Warrior) in the Balsall Heath district.
Career & Breakthroughs
His first recording was “Frivolous Woman”, produced by Birmingham-based producer G. T. Haynes (who also managed artists like Pato Banton and Tippa Irie).
Spence’s breakthrough came in 1987 with the single “Don’t Leave Me Lonely” released on Greensleeves Records, which earned him a Best Newcomer award. He then recorded a string of lovers rock–style tracks for the London label Fashion, including Yesterday’s Magic, I Believe in Love, and Crazy Feelings.
In 1989, his debut full-length album I’ll Be There (produced by Haynes) was released to much acclaim. It won Best Reggae Album at the Black Music Awards, and Spence himself was voted Best Male Reggae Singer the same year.
He also collaborated with deejay Tippa Irie on “Girl of My Best Friend”, released via Island Records, taking the act on tours across the US, Japan, and Africa.
As his musical vision evolved, Spence moved beyond purely romantic themes. His second album, Unfinished Business (1999, on the Stingray label), shows more conscious and roots-oriented songs. Tracks like Know Yourself Mankind and Freedom gained recognition in roots reggae circles.
Over time, he has continued to record and perform, working closesly with Friendly Fire Band and Friendly Fire Music amongst others, and in later years has gravitated toward gospel music.
Style & Influence
Peter Spence’s voice is often praised for its clarity, tenderness, and emotional expression. His music frequently balances romantic lovers rock sensibilities with more socially conscious or spiritual content.
He is part of the UK reggae tradition, alongside contemporaries like Pato Banton, Tippa Irie, Macka B, Maxi Priest, and others who helped shape British reggae in the 1980s and 1990s.
Friendly Fire Music Releases: