Reggae Legend and Bob Marley Collaborator Dies at 73
In 2026 so far, the music world has repeatedly been surprised to learn about the deaths of famous and talented artists. That trend has now continued as the reggae legend who worked with some of the most iconic musicians of his generation, Lowell “Sly” Dunbar, has passed away at 73 years old.
Lowell “Sly” Dunbar Dies at 73 After Legendary Music Career
On January 26, 2026, The Associated Press reported the news that Lowell “Sly” Dunbar had passed away at 73 years old. The article also detailed many facts about what the drummer, who was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, accomplished during his decades-long music career.
Dunbar formed a duo with Robbie Shakespeare, who died in 2021, and the pair, collectively known as Sly & Robbie, formed Taxi Records. Under that banner, they worked on an incredibly long list of songs, including tracks from Bob Marley and Bob Dylan. A Rolling Stone article revealed that Sly & Robbie also worked withGrace Jones, Herbie Hancock, Mick Jagger, Madonna, Fugees, No Doubt, Sinead O’Connor, and Britney Spears.
Once news of Dunbar's passing broke, UB40's Ali Campbell posted on Facebook about how sad the news made him while expressing how much he respected the legendary musician.
"Words cannot describe how heartbroken I am to hear of the passing of my friend and legend, Sly Dunbar. Working with Sly (and Robbie) on countless projects over the years, we have truly lost an originator all round wonderful soul only recently we were discussing new ideas which would have been phenomenal. Modern day beats simply wouldn’t be what they are without the influence of reggae and dancehall riddims that Sly singlehandedly pioneered. Walk good, Sly, Raise one with Robbie. You will be truly, truly missed. Big love, brother Ali. ❤️????????"
Lowell “Sly” Dunbar's Widow Revealed Details of His Surprise Death
On January 26, 2026, Lowell "Sly" Dunbar's widow, Thelma Dunbar, told The Gleaner about finding her husband following his death. She also remarked that the beloved musician had been sick before he passed away. The outlet described her struggling to speak due to her tears and anguish. "About 7 o'clock this morning, I went to wake him up, and he wasn't responding. I called the doctor, and that was the news... I knew he was sick … but I didn't know that he was this sick."
While there is no doubt that Dunbar's passing is tragic, his widow revealed one heartwarming detail to The Gleaner, that he had a great day just before his death. "Yesterday was such a good day for him. He had friends come over to visit him, and we all had such a good time. He ate well yesterday … sometimes he's not into food."
Our thoughts are with Lowell “Sly” Dunbar's family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.