Grammy-winning producer and drummer Sly Dunbar — one half of the Jamaican duo Sly and Robbie — has died at aged 73. Born Lowell Fillmore Dunbar on Could 10, 1952, Sly left us on January 26, 2026.
Leroy Brown, singer/songwriter, producer, veteran recording artist and a detailed good friend of Sly Dunbar confirmed Dunbar’s passing on Monday morning.
He had been ailing for greater than a decade, affected by continual issues along with his legs and issues stemming from a slipped disc.
Alongside bassist Robbie Shakespeare, who died in 2021, Dunbar shaped essentially the most influential rhythm part in Jamaican music historical past, serving to to outline the sound of reggae, dub, and dancehall throughout 5 many years.
Sly Dunbar was not solely one of many biggest drummers in reggae historical past, however some of the influential drummers of all time. His unmistakable groove powered hundreds upon hundreds of recordings, shaping reggae, dub, dancehall, and past. Cherished deeply by musicians and followers alike, his passing is a profound loss for music worldwide.
Along with bassist Robbie Shakespeare, Sly shaped essentially the most legendary rhythm part in reggae historical past. From their early days as session musicians at Jamaica’s Channel One Studio, Sly & Robbie turned the spine of reggae and dub for over 5 many years. Their sound outlined eras and crossed genres, collaborating with artists similar to Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Grace Jones, and lots of, many extra.
Robbie Shakespeare’s passing in 2021 marked the fading of an period, and with Sly Dunbar’s demise, a historic chapter in international music involves its closing notice.
Sly Dunbar is survived by his spouse and daughter.
