sports
January 27, 2026
Sly Dunbar obituary
Drummer who with the bassist Robbie Shakespeare provided the rhythm section for Peter Tosh, Grace Jones and Black Uhuru
TL;DR
- Sly Dunbar, a renowned Jamaican drummer, died at 73 after a long illness.
- He was known for his precision timing and inventive approach to reggae rhythms, incorporating funk, soul, and disco.
- Dunbar, with his partner Robbie Shakespeare, backed many notable reggae artists and collaborated with international stars like Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, and Grace Jones.
- Their collaboration produced many hits, particularly for Grace Jones, solidifying their status as the "Rhythm Twins."
- Born Lowell Dunbar in Kingston, Jamaica, he developed his passion for drumming early, inspired by the Skatalites and encouraged by local musicians.
- He gained experience with various bands like the Yardbrooms, Supersonics, and the Volcanos, eventually forming Skin, Flesh & Bones with Shakespeare.
- Dunbar was a key member of the Revolutionaries, Channel One's house band, and later toured with Peter Tosh, solidifying his partnership with Shakespeare.
- Their label, Taxi, achieved success with artists like Gregory Isaacs and Black Uhuru.
- Sly and Robbie were integral to Chris Blackwell's Compass Point All Stars, contributing to hits for Grace Jones and others.
- They demonstrated versatility across genres with albums by Gwen Guthrie, Bob Dylan, and Herbie Hancock.
- Dunbar also became a sought-after electronic rhythm builder in the dancehall scene, working on hits for artists like Chaka Demus & Pliers.
- Their later work included collaborations with Simply Red and No Doubt.
- Dunbar continued performing until Shakespeare's death in 2021 and remained active in the studio.
- He was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government in 2015.
- He is survived by his wife, Thelma, and daughter, Natasha.
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