Horace Andy and Alton Ellis portraits by David Corio in the permanent collection of National Portrait Gallery

Horace Andy outside Rough Trade Records, King’s Cross, London, 1985 by David Corio

Alton Ellis in Stonebridge Park, Harlesden, London, 1984 by David Corio

The National Portrait Gallery in London has just acquired two silver gelatin prints by David Corio for their permanent collection.

The captivating portraits of reggae icons Horace Andy, renowned Jamaican roots reggae songwriter and singer, and Alton Ellis, celebrated Jamaican singer-songwriter, have found a permanent home in the prestigious collection of the NPG.

These timeless images were skillfully captured by British artist David Corio during the mid-1980s in London. Featured in Corio's latest book, 'The Black Chord', these portraits are among the over 200 striking photographs showcasing black musicians from various genres, now available to pre-order.