VP Records announced yesterday the death of reggae legend Gregory Isaacs. Isaacs fought a year-long battle with lung cancer before passing away on October 25, 2010 at his home in London, at the age of 59.
Best known for his lovers’ rock anthems, the versatile and velvet-voiced crooner was recognized by the international masses for his talent and contribution to music for decades, and remains an icon for the genre.
Isaacs was born on July 15, 1951 in Kingston, Jamaica and gained appeal and acclaim in the 1970s and 1980s for hits such as “Night Nurse” and “Rumors” and his 1988 landmark album, Red Rose for Gregory.
Nicknamed the ‘Cool Ruler’ by his fans, Isaacs pioneered his own sound by fusing traditional reggae with dancehall, thereby reinventing the genre and expanding its global fan base into what it is today.
“Gregory Isaacs leaves behind an iconic history and catalog that is unparalleled,” said VP Records CEO, Christopher Chin. “He devoted his entire life to music and his memory will forever live on with us – through his music and the legacy he leaves behind.”
Gregory Isaacs was laid to rest at the Dovecot Memorial Cemetery in St. Catherine.
Author: World Music Central News Room
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Red Rose for Gregory, the Coolest Ruler
RIP
I grew up listening to the “cool ruler” – everything about Gregory was smooth. Really huge loss to the reggae movement, simply a great musician.
RIP Gregory; thank you for the many moments of pure musical joy xx