Wailer has been in hospital since December and died at Kingston Medical Associates Hospital, Olivia Grange said in a statement Tuesday. No cause of death was reported. Grange said the statement was made at the request of Wailer’s family.
“We mourn the passing of this remarkable singer, songwriter and percussionist and celebrate the life and many achievements,” the statement said. “We remain grateful for the role that Bunny Wailer has played in the development and popularity of Reggae music around the world.”
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness also greeted the legendary musician. “Bunny Wailer has had a tremendous impact on the world, setting the stage for a global movement, a love for Rocksteady and reggae music. His legendary performances have touched the hearts and souls of millions of fans in Jamaica and around the world,” said the Prime Minister. said in a statement.
Wailer, whose real name was Neville Livingston, was a founding member of Wailers, according to the statement. Wailers also included the legendary Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley and Peter Tosh.
Wailer has won three Grammy Awards throughout his career, two for Best Reggae Album and one for Best Reggae Recording for “Time Will Tell – A Tribute To Bob Marley,” according to the Grammys website.
The Jamaican government awarded Wailer the Order of Jamaica in 2012 and then in 2017 the Order of Merit, “the country’s highest honor,” according to the prime minister’s statement.
“Prime Minister Holness extended his sincere condolences to the Livingston family, friends, music colleagues and many supporters around the world,” the statement said.