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Legendary Jamaican drummer Sly Dunbar has passed away at the age of 73. Dunbar's death, announced this morning, marks the loss of one of reggae’s most influential architects.
Dunbar role in shaping reggae, dub, dancehall, and digital reggae, is second to none, estimated to have been a part of over 200,000 recording sessions across his career. He made up one half of the iconic duo Sly & Robbie, alongside bassist Robbie Shakespeare, who passed away in 2021. Together, they left their signature on stars including The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Grace Jones.
We spoke to producer and DJ, ZJ Sparks to get her reaction to the tragedy. She spoke on meeting Sly and Robbie and the impression that experience left on her.
ZJ Sparks goes on to speak about what it means to lose a legend in Jamaican music and reflects on her happiness at his receiving his flowers while he was still around to smell them.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness took to social media to mourn Sly Dunbar's death, writing "Sly was an architect of sound. Alongside Robbie Shakespeare, he established a foundation that defined the era of Reggae and Dancehall. From the “Taxi” label to his work with international superstars like Grace Jones and The Rolling Stones, Sly’s influence was global. His contribution to our cultural heritage is immeasurable. His legacy lives on every time a drum kit is played or a reggae record spins. Rest in eternal peace, Sly. Your rhythm continues to beat in our hearts."