Legendary Jamaican reggae singer, vocalist and dance hall innovator, U-Roy has died at the age of 78.
His longtime collaborator Neil Fraser, aka Ariwa Sounds studio’s Mad Professor, confirmed the news.
U-Roy was known for pioneering the vocal style of “toasting,” performing conversational, rhythmic speech over a reggae or dancehall beat.
Throughout his career, U-Roy released some 20 records and contributed to Toots and Maytals’ Grammy-winning album True Love. He was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government for his influence on the country’s music scene.
Throughout his career, U-Roy released some 20 records and contributed to Toots and Maytals’ Grammy-winning album True Love.
He was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government for his influence on the country’s music scene.