Prince Buster dead at 78
English radio DJ, David Rodigan, confirmed on Twitter on Thursday that musical legend, Cecil Bustamente Campbell, better known as ‘Prince Buster’ had died.
Rodigan posted a short statement on social media, which read:
“It is with great sadness that I have just learned of the death of Jamaica’s music icon and pioneer, Prince Buster. A true music legend. Prince Buster’s death has been confirmed by Mr. Desmond Young, President of The Jamaica Federation of Musicians. Deepest condolences go out to Prince Buster’s wife Mola Ali, his children and family members and manager Delroy Williams.”
Prince Buster was said to be sick for some time, after having a series of strokes.
Prince Buster is regarded as Jamaica’s first international musical legend and was Ska and rocksteady pioneer.
The records that Prince Buster released in the 1960s – such as “I Feel the Spirit” and “Fly Flying Ska” – set a blueprint for a ska and rocksteady anthems to come and had a profound influence on the music scene of the 1970s.
