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Reggae Legend Sly Dunbar Passes at 73, Leaves Lasting Legacy

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sly Dunbar, the Jamaican drummer and half of the influential duo Sly & Robbie, died at 73 on January 26, 2026, after a long health battle, confirmed by producer Rory Baker.
Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare shaped reggae, dub, and dancehall for over five decades.
He worked with Bob Marley and Grace Jones and received 13 Grammy nominations, winning two.
Friends remember him as a generous mentor, with a legacy through reggae's evolution.

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Story summary

Sly Dunbar, the Jamaican drummer and half of the influential duo Sly & Robbie, died at 73 on January 26, 2026, after a long health battle, confirmed by producer Rory Baker.
Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare shaped reggae, dub, and dancehall for over five decades.
He worked with Bob Marley and Grace Jones and received 13 Grammy nominations, winning two.
Friends remember him as a generous mentor, with a legacy through reggae's evolution.