A rare glimpse into the life and career of reggae keyboard icon Franklyn 'Bubbler' Waul, revealing stories from Kingston studios, legendary sessions, and his own musical project.
Franklyn ‘Bubbler’ Waul is one of those figures in reggae whose name carries quiet reverence among insiders. Known for his mastery of the keyboards and a career that stretches back to the 1970s, Waul’s influence runs through some of reggae’s most iconic recordings. From his early days at Joe Gibbs’ studio to playing with Lloyd Parks’ We The People Band and Sly & Robbie’s Taxi Gang, his touch helped shape many classic tracks. Despite his extensive work, Waul remains modest and elusive, often found supporting live shows or behind the scenes rather than chasing the limelight.
His journey began in Kingston, where as a teenager, he was encouraged by friend Winston McAnuff to step into the studio. According to Waul of Sound, waul recounts his first experience in a commercial recording environment with a mix of awe and self-doubt. Interestingly, that initial session was at Aquarius, Herman Chin Loy’s studio, but it was Errol Thompson at Joe Gibbs’ studio that ultimately became his musical home. His talent on the keys quickly made him indispensable, with Waul playing on hits like Dennis Brown’s “Money In My Pocket” and Culture’s “Two Sevens Clash.” His ability to craft melodies and arrangements made him a sought-after session musician in the golden era of reggae.
Waul’s stories about his early days reveal a young musician deeply immersed in the craft. According to the original report, he remembers the playful chaos of school days, bending rules to play secular music on a church piano, and the humorous encounters with authority figures like his principal. His tale of being trapped in a circle of students as they pretended to be hymns while avoiding his principal’s approach captures the youthful spirit and resourcefulness that fueled his musical journey. These anecdotes provide a vivid picture of a talented artist whose roots are firmly planted in Kingston’s vibrant music scene.
In recent years, Waul has been seen performing at festivals like Rototom Sunsplash 2022 alongside old friends Lloyd Parks and Sly Dunbar. According to coverage of the story, his contributions continue through projects like Fruits Records’ “Roots Architects,” a veteran instrumental album, and Aleighcia Scott’s “Windrush Baby,” showcasing his enduring relevance. Despite his busy session career, Waul prefers a low profile—supporting shows, sharing knowledge, and working on his own project, Waul Of Sound. His humility and technical mastery remain constant, even as he admits to struggles with the business side of music, particularly in managing his publishing rights.
Waul’s story takes a personal turn with an unexpected interview in Kingston, where he agreed to speak after years of reticence. Conducted in a noisy car park before a live show, the conversation offers a rare glimpse into his perspective. Waul talks about his first recording experiences, the importance of mentorship, and his love for football—especially Manchester United. He mentions his ongoing project, Waul Of Sound, which aims to preserve and innovate within the reggae instrumental tradition. Despite decades of work, Waul remains focused on the music itself rather than the spotlight, a true yard-rooted craftsman.
For those interested in reggae’s deep history, Waul’s stories are a reminder of the countless musicians behind the scenes who shape the sound. His early sessions with Joe Gibbs, encounters with legends like Bob Marley, and his dedication to the craft exemplify the unsung heroes of reggae. As he continues to support and perform, Waul’s legacy is firmly etched into the fabric of Jamaican music, quietly influencing new generations. His journey underscores the importance of humility, skill, and a love for the music that keeps reggae vibrant and alive.
