The music world is in mourning following the announcement that Sly Dunbar, the celebrated reggae drummer and one half of the iconic production duo Sly & Robbie, has died at the age of 73. His passing marks the end of an era for reggae and popular music, coming just a few years after the death of his long-time musical partner, bassist Robbie Shakespeare, in 2021.
A Pioneering Rhythm Section
Together, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare formed one of the most influential rhythm sections in music history. Their partnership, which began in the 1970s, revolutionised reggae with its innovative beats and production techniques. The duo contributed to hundreds of songs, shaping the sound of early reggae artists such as Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer, both former members of The Wailers alongside Bob Marley.
Crossing Musical Boundaries
Beyond the reggae scene, Sly & Robbie's collaborations extended into mainstream pop and rock, working with a diverse array of global icons. Their distinctive rhythms can be heard on tracks by Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones, the legendary Bob Dylan, and the avant-garde singer Grace Jones. This ability to bridge genres made them sought-after producers and session musicians, earning them critical acclaim and a lasting impact on the music industry.
Dunbar's drumming style, characterised by its precision and creativity, was a cornerstone of the duo's success. His work helped define the "rockers" and "dub" styles within reggae, influencing countless musicians across different genres. The loss of both Sly and Robbie within a few years of each other signifies the closing of a significant chapter in musical history, but their legacy continues to resonate through the vast catalogue of music they created together.
