Mento band from Port Antonio, Jamaica, formed in 1955 by Moses Deans (Banjo), Papa Brown (Rumba Box), Martell Brown (Guitar), Derrick Johnny Henry (Maracas & Percussion), and David Sonny Martin (Guitar). The group was often augmented by other musicians and dancers, some of whom went on to become full band members, including early members Albert Minott (Rumba Box) and Allan Swymmer (Percussion). Although only recording intermittingly, the group has continued - with a mix of foundation and newer members - as a live unit since it's founding.

Swymmer moved to Saint Ann's Bay in the early 1970s and led a second Jolly Boys lineup that operated concurrently with the original. It was this group that released the first recordings under The Jolly Boys' name. This group continued for a time under the leadership of Donald Davidson after Swymmer rejoined Moses Deans and the original group in Port Antonio.

Swymmer led separate group again in the early 2000s, which again operated concurrently with the original group, led by Joseph Bennett (2) after the death of Moses Dean. By 2010, the two groups had come together with a major record deal and featured Albert Minot as lead singer.