[3] He is also known for fighting against systemic racism and discrimination throughout his career and breaking colour barriers throughout the 1940s having appeared in previously "whites only" music clubs in Toronto such as the Town Tavern in the 1940s.

[4][2] Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario,[1] Alleyne grew up in Kensington Market which was home to many Jewish families and the city's small Black community.

[5] Between gigs, Alleyne would practice at the St. Christopher House and the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League hall.

[6] Following a serious car accident in 1967, Alleyne stepped away from music for a number of years,[1] becoming a partner with Dave Mann, John Henry Jackson and Howard Matthews in The Underground Railroad, a soul food restaurant and first of its kind in Toronto.

[9] Kollage’s original lineup included Jeff King (saxophone), Chris Butcher (trombone), Alex Brown (trumpet), Stacie McGregor (piano), Artie Roth (bass) and Archie Alleyne (drums).