DESMOND Dekker is to perform at O'Neill's Bar in Leytonstone on Sunday, an amazing 32 years after he first achieved international stardom with the hit single Israelites.

Desmond, now 59, was born in Jamaica and recorded his first single in 1963.

Along with his band the Aces, he went on to record 20 number one hits in the country of his birth.

In 1969 Desmond burst on to the international stage after dreaming up the immortal lines "get up in the morning, slaving for breakfast, so that every mouth can be fed".

Israelites went on to become a worldwide number one hit.

Other successes followed and Desmond has been credited as the first reggae artist to achieve international recognition with the music.

After falling on harder times in the 80s, including managerial problems and financial difficulties, it is yet to be seen whether Desmond, who has toured extensively in recent years, still has the ability that made him a legend in his youth.

O'Neills Irish Bar is at 762 Leytonstone High Road and doors open at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £6 in advance or £8 on the day.

For more information call the sales office on 8521 7111, or the First Stop Shop on 8518 7088.