Government of Jamaica
Kingston, 13 October 2023 - The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has expressed sorrow and dismay over the death of "musician par excellence", Michael Ibo Cooper last night.
Minister Grange said:
"I am saddened to learn of the passing of one of Jamaica's iconic musicians Michael 'Ibo' Cooper, former member of the Inner Circle Band and Founding member of the Third World Band.
Only last month Ibo lost his wife Joy and in March, he lost his son Arif.
I wish to express my condolences to his children Arianne, Akiri and Abean and to the local and international musical fraternity.
Ibo was a strong and constant voice for the music industry and an exemplary music teacher.
Generations of Jamaican musicians have been shaped by him, and our industry is better for having had him.
I also benefitted from his advice as a member of the Entertainment Advisory Board.
May his soul rest in perpetual peace."
END