Acclaimed Jamaican reggae musician Gregory Isaacs died today in London at the age of 59 after a lengthy battle with lung cancer. Isaacs began his career in the late ’60s and worked with a range of notable producers including Lee “Scratch” Perry and Gussie Clark. He achieved global success after he signed with Island Records and released his acclaimed album Night Nurse in 1982. Isaacs appeared in the film Rockers, in which he performed “Slavemaster.” With over 500 albums to his credit (many were compilations), Isaacs’ personal life was also tumultuous. He was addicted to crack cocaine and was arrested at least 27 times for various offences. Though he had been in declining health for several years he released his final lbum, Brand New Me, in 2008.
His wife, Linda, said in a statement, “Gregory was well-loved by everyone, his fans and his family, and he worked really hard to make sure he delivered the music they loved and enjoyed. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.”
