Sly Dunbar Dies at 73: Sly & Robbie Reggae Legend Passes

Sly Dunbar, a famous Jamaican reggae drummer and one half of the famous duo Sly & Robbie, also known as the “Riddim Twins,” has died at the age of 73. His wife, Thelma Dunbar, said he died suddenly at their home in Kingston, Jamaica, on January 26, 2026, but she didn’t say what caused it.

As members of the Revolutionaries house band at Channel One studio, Dunbar and bassist Robbie Shakespeare (who died in 2021) changed reggae music forever. They played on famous songs like “Punky Reggae Party” by Bob Marley, songs by Peter Tosh, “Anthem” by Black Uhuru, which won a Grammy, and pop crossovers with Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, and Grace Jones.

In 1985, the two won a Grammy for Best Reggae Recording, and in 1999, they won another for Best Reggae Album with “Friends.” They started Taxi Records together and helped artists like Shaggy and Beenie Man get their start.

Dunbar’s family wrote a touching tribute that talked about his “exceptional skill, creativity, and lasting impact” on music around the world. Natasha, the daughter, told TMZ the news and thanked people all over the world for their support.