Sly Dunbar, prolific legend of reggae, dies aged 73

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete January 26, 2026 at 11:35 PM

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Reggae legend Sly Dunbar, a highly influential drummer and producer, has died at age 73. Dunbar, born Lowell Fillmore Dunbar in Kingston, Jamaica, gained prominence as half of the production duo Sly & Robbie. They were known for their innovative work with reggae artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Black Uhuru, and for expanding into other genres with artists such as Bob Dylan and Grace Jones. Sly & Robbie founded Taxi Records in 1980, fostering a new wave of Jamaican talent. Dunbar's death was confirmed by his wife and agent, marking the loss of a key figure who helped shape the sound of reggae and its influence on global music.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

BBC 30% Kingston 40% Bob Dylan ×250% Thelma Dunbar 50% Grace Jones ×260% Peter Tosh ×260% The Rolling Stones 60% Jamaica ×270% Robbie Shakespeare 70% Bob Marley ×280% Sly Dunbar ×4100%

Keywords

sly dunbar 100% reggae 90% sly & robbie 80% drummer 70% production team 60% jamaican music 60% taxi records 50% rhythm section 50% dancehall 40% rockers rhythm 40%