Toots Hibbert Reggae pioneer
FREDERICK “TOOTS” Hibbert, frontman of reggae group Toots And The Maytals, has been hailed as a “true pioneer who changed lives” after his death aged 77.
The Jamaican singer
“passed away peacefully” in the Caribbean island’s capital, Kingston, surrounded by his family, his representatives announced.
They did not confirm the cause of death but Hibbert had recently been tested for coronavirus and treated in intensive care.
Ziggy Marley, son of the late Bob Marley, was among those paying tribute.
He wrote on Twitter: “The Legendary Toots Hibbert has passed i spoke w/ him a few wks ago told him how much i loved him we laughed & shared our mutual respect.
“He was a father figure to me his spirit is w/ us his music fills us w/ his energy i will never forget him RIP MIGHTY & POWERFUL NYAH FYAH BALL.”
Sir Lenny Henry added: “So sorry to hear of Toots Hibbert’s death.
“His music was a constant in our house growing up via Tighten Up albums. His voice was powerful and adaptable to funk, soul, country, AND reggae. Rest in power…”
Reggae label Trojan Records, which released albums by Toots And The Maytals, paid tribute to the frontman.
A statement said: “We are so sad to hear of the passing of Toots. A true pioneer who changed lives and brought so much joy through his music. We have lost a true legend. Your music will live on forever Fredrick Nathaniel ‘ Toots’.
Glastonbury organiser Emily Eavis shared a video of the band performing a cover of Country Roads by John Denver at the Somerset festival in 2010.
She wrote on Twitter: “Thanks for the incredible music and all the memories Toots. Here’s one from 2010 on West Holts. Rest in peace.
A statement from Hibbert’s representatives said: “Mr Hibbert is survived by his wife of 39 years, Miss D, and his seven of eight children.”
Toots And The Maytals’ hits include 54- 46 ( That’s My Number), Pressure Drop and Monkey Man, while their 1968 single Do The Reggay is credited with giving the reggae genre its name.