Rude Boy Ska

One of the most iconic figures of ska and early rock steady, Desmond Dekker parlayed his clear, reedy voice and uncanny melodic gift into huge Jamaican and international hits in the 1960s, including “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” “It Mek,” and (especially) the deathless “Israelites.” You’ll find most of those early hits on this collection, which offers a good initial introduction to one of Jamaica’s most important singers.