Squashed between an ample haggler and a crocus bag of tings, on a Kingston bound ‘country-bus’ before the morning sun had blessed the chilly parish of Manchester, the young Cardiff Butt aka General Degree, would practice his rhyming skills. Money saved from his tailoring job tucked Into his billfold, the destination was the network of recording studios in Jamaica’s capital city and the chance to prove those skills to a record producer.

Born in Manchester on April 28, Degree often had to hide as a child from his strict Christian parents in order to get a taste of what was happening on the airwaves. It was only a few years later In his early 20’s, that Degree was hitting those same airwaves with his brilliant imitation of a grandmother in his first number one hit ‘Granny’- his first recording for Main Street producer Danny Browne.

‘Granny’ reigned in the dances and charts for one year straight, and that humorous vine has thrived throughout Degree’s career and is a component he naturally possesses. Degree’s impressive parade of number one hits continued both at home and abroad, and lends great credence to the fact that he certainly does know what he’s talking about. Tunes such as ‘Granny’ Brinks, Mr do it nice, Bodyguard, Pianist, Papa Lover, Hold Yuh Tonight, and countless others have had fans skanking.

An album in 2012 titled “Snapple Dapple”, marked his second album on Size 8 Records. So once again the wheels are turning for yet another lyrically creative production from Degree and will be an addition to his growing catalogue. Not to be outdone by the young bloods in the business, Degree has and will continue to rank among the best, and has pledged to maintain and continue contributing to the development and success of dancehall music.