Bunny Wailer came from humbling beginnings in Kingston, Jamaica, to become a world re-known musical icon with The Wailers alongside his childhood friend, Bob Marley.
The group would become trailblazers for their countrymen by setting trends abroad in United Kingdom and across the world with their hits such as “Small Axe”, “Simmer Down”, “Babylon System” and more. Bunny Wailer left the group and went solo in 1974.
He went on to win three Grammys and was given Jamaica’s Order Of Merit in 2017.
His death was confirmed by manager Maxine Stowe, and Jamaica’s Culture Minister, Olivia Grange.
The cause of death is unknown, but he had been in hospital since having a stroke in July 2020.
The star, whose real name was Neville O’Riley Livingston, had been the last surviving member of The Wailers, following Bob Marley’s death from cancer in 1981, and Peter Tosh’s murder during a robbery in 1987.
Check out reactions to his death below.
JAMAICA’S 🇯🇲 REGGAE LEGEND BUNNY WAILER DIES AT 73 pic.twitter.com/qOyBmQ3tdA
— 🏝CARIBBEAN CULTURE (@westindimade) March 2, 2021
Foundation Reggae Legend Bunny Wailer Rest In Power pic.twitter.com/mXFOMUK2dr
— Sounds of the Caribbean (@sotcreggaeradio) March 2, 2021
RIP Bunny Wailer (right), one third of a group, the original Wailers, as great as any that have ever graced this Earth. pic.twitter.com/df9vVRo92z
— Danny Kelly (@dannykellywords) March 2, 2021
RIP Bunny Wailer🙏🏾
Reggae fans around the world are in mourning once more with the passing of Neville O'Riley Livingston, OM.
The 3 times Jamaican Grammy winner & musician extraordinaire was an original member of the legendary The Wailers along with Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. pic.twitter.com/WUQgctttkw
— Sound Chat Radio (@IrishandChin) March 2, 2021
Condolence to the family of the great legend Bunny Wailer. We give thanks for all your musical contributions. Rest In Power” @capletonmusic pic.twitter.com/wJg97i0t15
— Capleton King Shango (@capletonmusic) March 2, 2021
