Sly Dunbar, the esteemed Jamaican drummer famed for his role in the iconic production duo Sly and Robbie, has passed away at the age of 73. According to reports, Dunbar died unexpectedly at home on Monday morning, leaving a legacy that has profoundly impacted the music world, particularly within reggae.
Dunbar, alongside his late partner bassist Robbie Shakespeare, who died in 2021, was instrumental in producing and performing a plethora of hit songs across various genres, including reggae, rock, and pop. The duo’s collaborations stretched wide, featuring legendary artists such as Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Grace Jones, Madonna, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, The Rolling Stones, and Sting. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Tributes have been pouring in from around the globe, reflecting Dunbar’s significant influence. Renowned British disc jockey David Rodigan lauded him as “one of the greatest drummers of all time,” expressing sorrow at the loss of a true reggae icon. He highlighted Dunbar’s extensive contributions to music, stating that the world has lost a cherished artist.
Singjay Mr. Vegas referred to Dunbar as his “greatest teacher/producer,” expressing gratitude for his influence on reggae culture while mourning his passing.
Rory Stone Love, a pioneer in sound system culture, also shared his feelings of loss, declaring it a “sad day” for Jamaica and the reggae community. He underscored Dunbar’s stature as one of the greats, indicating the void his absence creates.
As this story develops, it is clear that Sly Dunbar’s legacy will continue to resonate through the music he helped create and the countless artists he influenced during his illustrious career.