Kingston, 23 February 2021 - The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has expressed deep sadness at the passing of Constance Christie, mother of international dancehall artiste Shabba Ranks.

“She was someone I knew very well and I had made plans to touch base with her very soon. To hear of her passing is devastating.”

Minister Grange along with Clifton “Specialist” Dillon managed Shabba Ranks for many years and brought him to international stardom.

Shabba Ranking never graced a stage without paying respect to his mother whom he held in the highest esteem.

“Shabba would talk about 'Mama Christie' at every opportunity he got. She was a beautiful soul who supported her son in all his endeavours. She was his biggest cheerleader. In fact, it was Shabba’s public display of love and affection that led to so many younger artistes singing about their mothers.

“I know that Shabba Ranks is hurting deeply right now and I just want to tell him to take comfort because he did all that a child could have done for a parent. He fought his way through the music business and became very successful so that she could have been comfortable.”

Constance Christie passed away after a long battle with illness.

“We will all miss 'Mama Christie'. May her soul rest in peace,” Minister Grange added.

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