In St Catherine, a small town of the island of Jamaica, Stanley Beckford is something of a local star. Winner of countless singing competitions, he is the Compay (the comparison is sadly unavoidable) of Mento Jamaica's popular music from the 40s left to struggle at home after reggae's international success. Until now that is. And despite his advanced age, Stanley is clearly over the moon, revelling in his new fame.

Interview and photos by Marushka
Paris, June 2002