Kingston, 18 February 2021 – The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has issued the following statement at the passing of U Roy.

Minister’s Statement

“I am deeply saddened at news that veteran DJ, U Roy, has made his transition to a higher order.

Daddy U Roy earned his crown as ‘King of the Dancehall’ for the role he played in pioneering the art of ‘toasting’ on sound system rhythms.

His Stur Gav sound system launched the careers of many of Reggae’s stars including Charlie Chaplin, Josey Wales and Super Cat.

Who can forget his ‘Wake The Town and Tell the People’ and ‘Wear You To the Ball’? — just two of the songs that will remain forever in the rich legacy of Jamaica’s Reggae music culture.

Let us pause to reflect on the life and musical achievements of this great Jamaican artiste.

Daddy U Roy, love you forever.”

END