Reggae Legend Gregory Isaacs, The “Cool Ruler”, Dead At 59
He was a great reggae artist and also one of the most sartorially elegant stars on the world stage” -Suggs, lead singer of Madness
Gregory was well loved by everyone, his fans and his family, and he worked really hard to make sure he delivered the music they loved and enjoyed.” -Linda Isaacs, wife
Reggae star Gregory Isaacs died of lung cancer Monday morning October, 25 with his family around him.
Isaacs is best known for Night Nurse, his 1982 album, and the title track of the same name. In his career he released over 500 albums and collaborated with some of reggae and dancehall’s biggest names like Lee “Scratch” Perry, King Tubby, Freddie McGregor, Dennis Brown, Errol Holt and producer Sugar Minott, who also died this year.
He was one of those artists that could make his songs a new experience we he sang live. The anguish in his voice in songs like “Front Door” or the smoothness of “Number One”, not to mention the implicit adultness of “Night Nurse” to my young ears when I first heard it.
His cadence came through so clearly in song he earned the name “Cool Ruler” by his fans. I grew up listening to Gregory Isaacs and he will be missed.
While I loved him live check out Gregory Isaacs’ studio cuts .
Gregory Isaacs – Number One Live @ Reggae Sundance 2007
Gregory Isaacs @ Sunsplash 4 12 2009 – Oh What A Feeling & Private Beach Party
Gregory Isaacs – Front Door (LIVE)
