Reggae News: Sly Dunbar Dead at 73 — Tribute Events Scheduled to Honor Sly & Robbie Drummer in Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Legendary reggae drummer Sly Dunbar, one half of the iconic rhythm duo Sly & Robbie, passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of 73. Dunbar was instrumental in shaping modern reggae and early dancehall, contributing to thousands of recordings and helping elevate Jamaican music to a global audience.
Fans can celebrate his drumming mastery here: Watch Sly Dunbar playing drums on Facebook.
Scheduled Tribute Events
Official tribute events are scheduled for March 6–7 in Kingston. On Friday, March 6, a public viewing is planned at the National Indoor Sports Centre from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Earlier that day, a ceremonial motorcade is set to pass through historic recording landmarks across Kingston, honoring the locations where Dunbar helped craft some of reggae’s most enduring rhythms.
The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity in Kingston. The service will recognize Dunbar’s decades-long contribution to reggae music, his Grammy-winning career, and national honors including the Order of Distinction.
The Legacy of Sly Dunbar
Sly Dunbar’s influence extends far beyond his work behind the drum kit. Together with bassist Robbie Shakespeare, he formed one of the most prolific and recognizable rhythm sections in music history. Their innovative rhythms helped define the sound of reggae and influenced genres worldwide, including pop, R&B, and rock.
From Kingston studios to international tours, Dunbar’s drumming appeared on thousands of recordings. His signature “rockers” style brought precision, power, and creativity, establishing a blueprint for generations of producers and musicians. Industry experts consistently rank Sly & Robbie among the most recorded rhythm sections of all time, reflecting their versatility and global impact.
Through his artistry, Sly Dunbar helped carry reggae from the streets of Kingston to audiences worldwide. His influence continues to inspire musicians and producers, and his legacy is felt in every reggae riddim and performance that follows.