Reggae legend Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry has died in hospital aged 85.
The star was staying at Noel Holmes Hospital in Lucea, Jamaica, when he passed away earlier on Sunday August 29.
His cause of death has not yet been revealed.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness posted a tribute to his Twitter page following the news of the music legend’s death, which read: “My deep condolences to the family, friends, and fans of legendary record producer and singer.”
He penned a longer, emotional tribute on Facebook. writing: “My deep condolences to the family, friends, and fans of legendary record producer and singer, Rainford Hugh Perry OD, affectionately known as Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry.
(Image: Redferns)
“Perry was a pioneer in the 1970s’ development of dub music with his early adoption of studio effects to create new instrumentals of existing reggae tracks.
“He has worked with and produced for various artistes, including Bob Marley and the Wailers, the Congos, Adrian Sherwood, the Beastie Boys, and many others.
“Undoubtedly, Lee Scratch Perry will always be remembered for his sterling contribution to the music fraternity. May his soul Rest In Peace.”
The artist was a true pioneer in the development of dub music in the 1970s, and helped produce records for a huge wealth of artists including Bob Marley and the Wailers, Beastie Boys and The Clash.
(Image: Get Reading)
The star formed his own record label, dubbed Upsetter, which helped to bring Jamaican music around the world.
Reflecting on his expansive career on his own 80th birthday, Scratch told The Guardian: “Music is magic. If you have good music you have good magic. If you have good magic you will be followed by good people.”
Scratch’s own songs also proved hits with reggae fans, including hits like Having a Party and I Am the Upsetter.
Tributes have already been pouring in on social media, with one Twitter user writing: “RIP Lee Scratch Perry. You really were one of a kind; your Meltdown Festival in 2003 was amazing. You and Coldcut together, what a night. Thanks Lee xxxx”.
(Image: Getty Images)
Someone else posted: “R.I.P. to Lee Scratch Perry. Man was an instrumental influence on culture that inspired more culture that eventually led to inspiring me.”
“RIP Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry. An amazing talent – so many great tracks over the decades – and an amazing man,” another fan penned.
Bob Marley’s daughter Cedella also penned a tribute of her own, writing: “Lee Scratch Perry flying high… THE UPSETTER, TREND SETTER, NO ONE DID IT BETTER. FLY HIGH UNCLE LEE!”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
