Wailer had been in the hospital since December and died at Medical Associates Hospital in Kingston, Olivia Grange said in a statement on Tuesday. No cause of death was provided. Grange said the statement was made at the request of Wailer’s family.
“We regret the passing away of this remarkable singer, songwriter and percussionist and we celebrate his life and many achievements,” said the statement. “We remain grateful for the role that Bunny Wailer has played in the development and popularity of Reggae music around the world.”
Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, also greeted the legendary musician. “Bunny Wailer has made a tremendous impact on the world, setting the stage for a global movement for the love of Rocksteady and reggae music. His legendary performances have touched the hearts and souls of millions of fans in Jamaica and around the world,” said the prime minister said in a statement.
Wailer, whose real name was Neville Livingston, was one of the founding members of the Wailers, according to the statement. The Wailers also included the legendary Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley and Peter Tosh.
Wailer has won three Grammy Awards over the course of his career, two for Best Reggae Album and one for Best Reggae Recording for “Time Will Tell – A Tribute To Bob Marley”, according to the Grammys website.
The Jamaican government awarded Wailer the Order of Jamaica in 2012 and, in 2017, the Order of Merit, “the country’s highest honor,” according to the Prime Minister’s statement.
“Prime Minister Holness extended sincere condolences to the Livingston family, friends, fellow musicians and many supporters around the world,” said the statement.