Fans of classic Reggae music are in mourning as drummer Lowell “Sly” Dunbar, who is half of the legendary duo Sly & Robbie, has passed away. The duo is known for several songs, but their most popular include “Rhythm Killer,” “Good, Bad and the Ugly,” and “Night Nurse.” Dunbar was 73 years old.
Dunbar’s daughter, Natasha Dunbar, confirmed the news to TMZ. She told the outlet that he passed away on January 26 at his home in Kingston, Jamaica. She did not disclose the cause of his death. His family said in a statement, “As one half of Sly & Robbie, Sly helped shape the sound of reggae and Jamaican music for generations.
His extraordinary talent, innovation, and lasting contributions will never be forgotten. Sly’s music, spirit, and legacy touched people around the world, and we are deeply grateful for the love and support during this difficult time.” Dunbar’s death comes after his bandmate, Robbie Shakespeare, passed away in 2021.
This article is being updated!
Sly Dunbar Leaves Behind Quite a Legacy
According to VP Records, Sly & Robbie formed in the 1970s and later founded the record label Taxi Records. They then collaborated with international artists such as Peter Tosh and Black Uhuru. Notably, the duo was involved in the first Reggae album to win a Grammy, Black Uhuru’s “Anthem.”
Their work appears on more than 100 albums. Sly & Robbie also remained active in the later part of their careers. In 2008, they famously remixed Madonna’s “Give It 2 Me” from her “Hard Candy” album. Their credits also include 2019’s “Sly & Robbie vs. Roots Radics – The Final Battle,” which scored them a Grammy nomination the following year.
Tributes Are Pouring in For His Legacy
Dunbar accomplished quite a bit throughout his legendary career with Sly & Robbie. As a result, many are flocking to social media to pay tribute to his legacy.
One person, Nadine White, said on X, “Sly Dunbar, the legendary Jamaican drummer and one 1/2 of ‘Sly & Robbie’ production duo, has died. He was 73 years old. For decades, his rhythms powered the heartbeat of reggae and dancehall, shaping the sound of Jamaica and its diaspora. He’ll be missed. 🇯🇲”
Ali Campbell said, “Words cannot describe how heartbroken I am to hear of the passing of my friend and legend, Sly Dunbar 😢”
Another fan, Miss Soca Candy, said, “Sly & Robbie. For me were true architects of Reggae’s child: Dancehall and its creative instrumental dub sounds. Sly on the drums, Robbie on the Bass Guitar.
R.I.P. Sly Dunbar. You’ve reunited with your music friend in heaven, Robbie Shakespeare.💐”
Finally, someone else said, “RIP Sly Dunbar. Without doubt, one of the greatest reggae drummers of all time.”
