Reviving a Reggae Staple: Griff and Michele’s Take on ‘54-46’
Review: Griff and Michele – ‘54-46’ (Sounds of the Suburbs)
Release Date: 30th March 2025
Way Out Radio fans know this classic track spins on regular rotation on our radio show. It’s an absolute staple for reggae and ska fans, holding its own across the decades. In 2025, Griff and Michele bring their fresh take to the 1968 song ‘54-46’ by Toots and The Maytals. But does it pay off?
Let’s be honest, its a bit of fun. The duo bring their signature charm alongside fresh energy and enthusiasm for the culture of two-tone and ska. Recorded at Fantastic Sunshine Corner Studios, this rendition brings fan-feeling to the forefront. Lets dive in.
The Team Behind the Cover
The cover is a collaboration between New Dawn FM DJ, author, and musician Griff Griffiths and co-host Michele, with producer Steve ‘Smiley’ Barnard. Bernard has worked with the likes of Robbie Williams, Joe Strummer, and Tony Visconti, and his production on this track ensures a polished yet spirited sound.
Adding to the excitement, the song features an impressive lineup of guest vocalists from the world of mod, ska, and rock, including members of The Chords UK, AKA The Syndicate, The Dirty Strangers, Witchdoktors, Johny Copp (Love Parade), Damien Maddison, The Vulz, and more. The collective energy infuses the song with a sense of camaraderie and celebration.
The Legacy of ‘54-46’
The original ‘54-46 (That’s My Number)’ was written by Fred “Toots” Hibbert and recorded by Toots and the Maytals. Originally released on the Beverley’s label in Jamaica and the Pyramid label in the UK, it became one of the first reggae songs to achieve international popularity. The lyrics recount Toots’ experience of being imprisoned for marijuana possession, set to a riddim reminiscent of “Train to Skaville” by fellow Jamaican group The Ethiopians. The follow-up version, “54-46 Was My Number,” cemented its status as a cornerstone of reggae music, influencing generations of artists and appearing on numerous reggae anthologies over the years.
From Soundtrack to Sample: ‘54-46’ in Pop Culture
The cultural impact of ‘54-46’ extends far beyond its original release. The song has appeared in popular films and television series, including the sci-fi film Repo Men and Narcos: Mexico. It was also used as the soundtrack for the opening titles of Shane Meadows’ 2006 film This is England, a movie deeply rooted in British subcultures. The song's influence carried into modern music as well—on November 29, 2016, Major Lazer and Bad Royale released My Number, a track that samples ‘54-46 That’s My Number’. This version features newly recorded vocals by Toots Hibbert himself, adapting the lyrics to incorporate Major Lazer while maintaining the iconic melody.
Griff’s Creative Journey
Singer Griff has dipped his toe in everything from market trading to comedian and documentary filmmaking (punk documentary Are They Hostile?) his passion and experience shine through in this vibrant cover.
Accompanying the single is a high-spirited music video shot in Brighton, centered around the iconic ‘Quadrophenia Alley.’ The visuals tell a love story starring the real-life partnership of Griff and Michele, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the release.
Final Verdict: A Worthy Tribute?
Criticism for this release comes in comparison to Toots Hibbert’s original vocal which no one can stand up to, sorry Griff. I’m also not a massive fan off the straight drums which have lost the bounce of the original. But I accept this recording is more of a lighthearted tribute for the fun of it. I did enjoy the vocal layering of ‘Ghost Town’ at the end.
Fans of physical formats will be pleased to know that ‘54-46’ will be available on red vinyl 12” in EP format, featuring their previous singles ‘Christmas Smile,’ ‘Gogo Coco,’ and ‘I Had a Dream’ released via Sounds of the Suburbs.
Overall, an enjoyable cover of a defining anthem, with the energy of football chanting fans. A must-listen for fans of reggae, ska, and rocksteady, Griff and Michele’s ‘54-46’ is more than just a cover—it’s a celebration of a classic reborn.
