Iconic Drummer Sly Dunbar Passes Away
Lowell Fillmore ‘Sly’ Dunbar, a celebrated drummer and co-founder of Taxi Records, has passed away. He died at the age of 73, confirmed by his wife Thelma. The tragic news was shared after Thelma found him unresponsive at their home early in the morning.
Sly Dunbar’s Legacy in Music
Sly Dunbar, born on May 10, 1952, in Jamaica, was one half of the ground-breaking duo Sly and Robbie. Together, the Riddim Twins transformed reggae and dancehall music. His musical partner, Robbie Shakespeare, passed away on December 8, 2021, in Miami, Florida.
Sly’s journey as a drummer began at the age of 15 with The Yardbrooms. He later performed with the Ansell Collins-led band Skin, Flesh & Bones. His first recording was on the Dave and Ansell Collins album, Double Barrel.
Forming the Iconic Duo
The meeting of Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare in 1972 marked a pivotal moment in music history. Shakespeare introduced Sly to producer Bunny Lee, leading to sessions with the Aggrovators. By 1981, the duo had established themselves, working with legends like Peter Tosh and recording five albums together.
The Birth of Taxi Records
In 1980, Sly and Robbie launched Taxi Records. This label became a significant force in the music industry, featuring successful artists such as:
- Black Uhuru
- Chaka Demus and Pliers
- Ini Kamoze
- Beenie Man
- Red Dragon
Sly Dunbar’s impressive credits include collaborations with notable artists across various genres. His work spanned from reggae classics like Junior Murvin’s Police and Thieves to contributions on Bob Marley’s Punky Reggae Party and Bob Dylan’s albums Infidels and Empire Burlesque.
A Lifetime of Recognition
Throughout his career, Sly Dunbar received numerous accolades for his musical contributions. The Jamaican Government honored him with the Order of Distinction and awarded him the Musgrave Gold Medal in 2015. Additionally, he was set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Minnesota in May 2025.
Despite his passing, Sly Dunbar’s legacy will continue to influence musicians and fans around the world, solidifying his place in music history.
