Music Fraternity Mourns The Passing of Lloyd Brevett

Former Prime Minister P.J. Patterson has joined the music fraternity in  mourning the passing of  bass player and founding member of the seminal Jamaican ska group The Skatalites, Lloyd Brevett.  Mr. Brevett who was 80, passed away this morning at Andrews Memorial Hospital in St.Andrew, Jamaica.

He was hospitalised following a stroke and a series of seizures. Mr.  Patterson, a former manager of the The Skatalites,  says  the legendary bassists' passing will leave a void in the global music industry.  The former manager described  Mr. Brevett as a Jamaican treasure, and that while the magical horn section of the Skatalites drew most of the interest and crowd, it was Mr. Brevett who quietly provided the mesmerising sounds.

Mr. Patterson added that not only was Mr. Brevett a great musician and innovator, he was also an outstanding producer.  He was responsible for the seminal album, "African Roots" which was and remains  an inspiration to thousands of musicians who have followed.  Mr. Brevett was the  recipient of several awards throughout his long, highly influential career.  In closing the tribute, Mr. Patterson expressed condolences to his wife Ruth and son Johsua.

Brevett's health had rapidly deteriorated following the fatal shooting of his son Okeene Brevett on February 26, near the family's home in Seaview Gardens area of St.Andrew.  Okeene was returning home after accepting an award on his father's behalf from JaRIA (Jamaica Recording Industry Association) for his contributions to the development of Jamaica's music industry.