Reggae Legend Gregory Isaacs,59,The Cool Ruler Has Succumbed To Lung Cancer.
Legendary Reggae artist Gregory Isaacs,59, (July 15, 1951 – October 25, 2010)died this morning at his London home, losing his battle here on earth against lung cancer, which he valiantly fought for over a year. It is being reported that Mr. Isaac’s was surrounded by his family when he passed away.(WIKI)
His wife Linda released this statement to the press:
“Gregory was well-loved by everyone, his fans and his family, and he worked really hard to make sure he delivered the music they loved and enjoyed,…”He will be greatly missed by his family and friends”…(BBC)
Isaacs scored his first big hit with 1973’s “My Only Lover,” released more than 500 albums over his career, after that. His biggest international hit single was Night Nurse, recorded in 1982 at Bob Marley’s Tuff Gong studio, and that is the tune that many non-reggae fans picked up on and liked, securing his stardom and influence over the genre.(Rolling Stone)
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The album was recorded under the personal supervision of Bob Marley and his team, and Bob passed away shortly after that. Many considered Gregory Isaac to be the heir to the throne of reggae music after Marley died, if such a thing exist.
Isaac was a pioneer in the Lovers Rock style of reggae, that featured smooth vocals and seductive romantic soulful blends, which differed greatly from the roots reggae that was popularized by the likes of Bob Marley,Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer.(E! News)
His friend and fellow artist, Singer Suggs,told the BBC that,…”He was a great reggae artist and also one of the most sartorially elegant stars on the world stage,”…
Reporter Milo Miles wrote in the New York Times…Gregory Isaacs is the most exquisite vocalist in reggae, his pliable baritone equally at ease with silken ballads and slinky dance grooves.(Source)
Sadly, Isaac’s career went of track due to a terrible addiction to crack cocaine, which caused all of his teeth to fall out, affecting his silky smooth vocal delivery.
Isaac stated about this dark time…”It was the greatest college ever, but the most expensive fee ever paid – the Cocaine High School. I learnt everything – and now I’ve put it on the side.” (Source)
I am glad he did, because in 2008,after some 40 years as a recording artist, he made a huge comeback, by releasing his final studio album, “Brand New Me,” which was heralded by critics as one of his best albums from his over 40 years in the business.(Source)
Gregory Isaacs had been married multiple times and has many children from past relationships that are mourning the death of their father today.
Isaacs is survived by his wife and children, as well as his families,friends, and millions of fans worldwide.
His legacy in music will be left here for all to enjoy for years to come, as the youth rediscover the man known as the cool ruler…
..may he rest in power!
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