Judge Dread is the stage name of Alexander Minto Hughes, one of the first influential white reggae artists. Often, and sadly, dismissed as a pure novelty act, Judge Dread had 11 #1 hit singles in the UK, and was the first white reggae singer to have a #1 hit in Jamaica. Judge Dread was famous for nearly ridiculously innuendo-laden lyrics. Hughes died on 13 March 1998, stepping off stage at a concert in Canterbury. His last words were: "Let's hear it for the band!"
If you're looking for the crime-fighter from a dystopic future, see Judge Dredd.
Tropes that apply to the performer and his work:[]
- Double Entendre: In pretty much all his work, but some songs, such as "She Is A Big Girl Now", "Up With The Cock" and "Dread Rock" are one big Double Entendre.
- Embarrassing Middle Name: Seriously, "Minto"?
- Fan Nickname: "The King of the Rude".
- Hidden Depths: Wrote "A Child's Prayer" for Elvis Presley. Elvis died before the song was recorded.
- Refuge in Audacity: Number of #1 hit singles in the UK? 11. Number of songs banned from BBC Radio? 11.
- Small Reference Pools: Judge Dread has nothing to do with the helmeted crime-fighter of Mega-City One. The name was taken from the title of a Prince Buster song.