The world of music has lost a titan. Sly Dunbar, the celebrated Jamaican drummer and half of the iconic duo Sly and Robbie, has died at the age of 73. His passing, on Monday morning, leaves a void in the rhythm of reggae and beyond.
Born Lowell Fillmore ‘Sly’ Dunbar in Kingston in 1952, his musical journey began early. At just 15, he was already laying down beats with the band The Yardbrooms, a prelude to a career that would redefine Jamaican music. His initial recording experience came on the influential Dave and Ansell Collins album, *Double Barrel*.
Dunbar’s talent quickly propelled him through the vibrant Jamaican music scene. He lent his skills to legendary figures like Bunny Lee’s Aggrovators, Lee Perry’s Upsetters, and Joseph Hoo Kim’s Revolutionaries, honing his craft and establishing a reputation for innovative drumming.
The pivotal moment arrived in 1972 when Dunbar met Robbie Shakespeare. This encounter sparked a musical partnership that would become synonymous with reggae’s golden age. Together, they weren’t just a rhythm section; they were architects of sound.
Sly and Robbie’s influence extended far beyond the shores of Jamaica. Their distinctive sound graced tracks by Junior Murvin, including the haunting “Police and Thieves,” and Bob Marley’s energetic “Punky Reggae Party.” They weren’t confined by genre, however.
Their reach extended to collaborations with some of the biggest names in music history. Bob Dylan sought their rhythmic genius for albums like *Infidels* and *Empire Burlesque*. Grace Jones, Herbie Hancock, Joe Cocker, Serge Gainsbourg, and even the Rolling Stones all benefited from their unparalleled musicianship.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dunbar received 13 Grammy nominations, a testament to his enduring impact. He ultimately claimed victory twice, once in 1984 for Best Reggae Recording and again in 1998 for Best Reggae Album, solidifying his place among music’s elite.
Dunbar’s death follows the passing of his longtime partner, Robbie Shakespeare, who died in 2021. The loss of Shakespeare was deeply felt, and now, with Dunbar gone, an era of musical innovation has come to a close.
Jamaica’s Culture Minister, Olivia Grange, expressed profound sorrow, recognizing Sly and Robbie as “among Jamaica’s greatest musicians.” Their ability to elevate bass playing and drumming to new heights, both as a duo and in collaboration with countless artists, will forever be remembered.
The legacy of Sly Dunbar isn’t just about the music he played; it’s about the feeling he created. It’s about the heartbeat of reggae, the pulse of innovation, and the enduring power of a truly exceptional rhythm.
