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Veteran ska singer Owen Gray, credited with helping to introduce Jamaican music to the United Kingdom, passed away on Sunday at age 86. His daughter confirmed his death.
While the cause of death was not disclosed, Gray had suffered a stroke four years ago and was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019.
Born in St Mary, Gray launched his career in Kingston’s club scene. His 1960 track Patricia is widely regarded as the first release on Island Records.
He also recorded with Clement Dodd at Studio One, where he mentored a young Millie Small — later famous for My Boy Lollipop.
Gray migrated to the UK in 1962 during the wave of West Indian migration.
In 2023, he was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government for his contribution to music.