Wailer has been in the hospital since December and died at the Medical Associates Hospital in Kingston, Olivia Grange said in the statement Tuesday. No cause of death was given. Grange said the statement was made at the request of Wailer’s family.
“We regret the passing of this outstanding singer, songwriter and percussionist and celebrate his life and many achievements,” the statement read. “We remain grateful for the role that Bunny Wailer played in the development and popularity of Reggae music around the world.”
Jamaica Premier Andrew Holness also praised the legendary musician. “Bunny Wailer has made a tremendous impact on the world, setting the stage for a worldwide movement, a love of Rocksteady and reggae music. His legendary performances have touched the hearts and souls of millions of fans in Jamaica and around the world. world, “the prime minister said in a statement.
Wailer, real name Neville Livingston, was a founding member of the Wailers, according to the statement. The Wailers also included the legendary Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley and Peter Tosh.
Wailer has won three Grammy Awards throughout his career, two for Best Reggae Album and one for Best Reggae Recording for ‘Time Will Tell – A Tribute To Bob Marley’, according to the Grammys website.
The Jamaican government awarded Wailer the Order of Jamaica in 2012 and then the Order of Merit in 2017, ‘the country’s highest honor’, according to the Prime Minister’s statement.
“Premier Holness expressed its sincere condolences to the Livingston family, friends, its musical colleagues and many supporters around the world,” the statement said.