**16. Sly Dunbar**
Sly Dunbar, the legendary reggae drummer and one half of the groundbreaking duo Sly and Robbie, passed away on January 26, 2026, at age 73. For anyone over 40 who danced to reggae classics, collected vinyl, or felt the rhythm of ’70s and ’80s Jamaican music, this loss takes away a true architect of the sound that moved the world.
As co-founder of Sly and Robbie, he created the “riddim” style that influenced countless hits. Dunbar played on tracks with Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, Grace Jones, Madonna, and many more, earning two Grammy Awards. His innovative drumming helped bring reggae from the streets of Kingston to global stages. His beats still pulse through playlists and dance floors, keeping the spirit of Jamaican music alive for new generations.
