Jamaica-born artiste Tony Washington has captured the hearts of record enthusiasts with his recent release, Sunday, backed by One More Time, swiftly ascending the Hit Parade chart in Jamaica. A star under the DECCA recording label, Washington, not only captivates his audience with his soulful vocals but also commands an enthusiastic response with his skillful piano playing.

Published Saturday, February 8, 1964

Tony’s gone abroad to further his career

KINGSTON-BORN TONY WASHINGTON caught record fans in whirlwind fashion with his recent recording,Sunday backed with One More Time, which is currently on the Hit Parade chart here in Jamaica. This DECCA recording star does not only hold his audience with his singing but also gets an enthusiastic response to his piano playing.

NEWTON THOMAS (for that is Tony’s real name) left Jamaica in December of 1961 for London, where he said he hoped to continue singing and playing the piano.

Before he left, Tony used to attend St Aloysius Boys’ School and was a member of the choir. He was also lead singer and pianist for a now-defunct group called The Cool-shakes, which consisted of three boys who were famous for their clown-singing and mimicry on stage.

After leaving The Cool-shakes, Tony formed his own combo which consisted of bass, drums, guitar, saxophone and piano.  He doubled as vocalist and pianist.  This combo did well, playing engagements around the island, but did not last long.  It was then that Tony decided to go abroad in order to pursue his career better.

Now he can be seen in most of the big night spots around London and on TV.  Said Chris Blackwell, his manager: “I want the best for Tony because he has the making of a big star.”

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