Reggae legend Jimmy Riley is dead. The singer passed away at his home in Florida on Wednesday (March 23, 2016) from cancer.
Details surrounding his death are still sketchy, but sources told Urban Islandz that he was battling cancer for several years.
Jimmy Riley, is the father of reggae singer, Tarrus Riley, and is known for hits including “Love and Devotion,” “Give Thanks & Praise.”
The reggae community has been reacting to his death including his son Tarrus Riley who is reportedly very distraught.
“F*** cancer,” Tarrus wrote on his Instagram page.
“RIP Jimmy Riley. Condolences to Tarrus Riley and the family. It is gonna be rougher yet on earth but you are now with your maker, enjoying all the beauty he promised us in heaven! Walk good till we meet again my BREDREN,” Mr. Vegas wrote on Facebook.
Third World paid tribute to Jimmy Riley by posting a video of the late singer and his son singing together. “Salute to “Jimmy Riley” , from RockSteady to Dancehall,” the band wrote.
Remembering Jimmy Riley – Pull Up Selector
Salute to "Jimmy Riley" , from RockSteady to Dancehall, RASTAFARI LIVES! Sending lots of love and hearfelt condolences to his family including son, Tarrus Riley… Jah Bless his soul.. Martin James Norman Riley – May 22, 1954 – March 23, 2016. #RememberingALegend #Jamaicans #Musicians #JimmyRiley #RIP #LionOrder #RastafariLives #TarrusRiley
Posted by THIRD WORLD on Wednesday, March 23, 2016
During a 2007 interview with OnStage, Jimmy Riley spoke about starting his career at the age of 14 and went on to become an icon in reggae music.
“I started in the music business since I was in school at just 14 years old,” he said.
Tarrus Riley has been hailed as one of the brightest stars in reggae/dancehall music over the last decade with songs such as “She’s Royal,” “Start A New,” and “Superman.”
#TeamSumfest sends condolences to @tarrusrileyja and family on passing of #JimmyRiley. Our hearts are broken #RIP pic.twitter.com/NCaANlnvLl
— Reggae Sumfest (@reggaesumfest) March 23, 2016
RIP