‘I-lebration’ for Bunny Wailer as he turns 72

Neville Livingston, more popularly known as Bunny Wailer, turns 72 on Wednesday, and while there will be a private celebration with family at his St Andrew home, also on the roster is the second edition of Rootsman Skankin, the ‘I-lebration Of Bunny Wailer’s Earthstrong’, on Saturday at Rebel T International Headquarters in Kingston.

A three-time Grammy Award winner and a founding member of the acclaimed Wailers group, Bunny Wailer told The Gleaner that he’s “feeling good and proper as a survivor.”

Regaining his strength from a stroke last year, he added, “I am thanking Jah for all that he’s done for me, for what he’s doing now, for every little thing, and for all what I sing.”

The father of 13 children, ranging in ages from 50 to 12, is looking forward to spending time with family on his birthday.

Interestingly, 12 of his children are girls. His only son, Asadenaki Wailer, has followed in his father’s footsteps and is also an artiste.

“All his children who are in Jamaica will be with him on Wednesday. Unfortunately, about half of them are overseas, but of course that doesn’t mean they will not share in the great celebration as ‘Jah B’ turns 72,” Bunny Wailer’s manager, Maxine Stowe told The Gleaner.

Wail Label

WAIL, the entertainment label which was launched late last year with artistes Bunny Wailer, Asadenaki Wailer and Blvk H3r0, is hosting the official “i-lebration” event.

According to a release, Rootsman Skankin is being staged in celebration of April as Rastafari Month, highlighting the Rastafari community’s contributions to Jamaica’s music and culture. This was recently highlighted in the UNESCO Reggae Inscription received at the end of 2018. This second edition will feature selections of Jamaican music from top Jamaican sound Rebel T International.

Stowe added that the event is centred around its original intention of showcasing the culture of Rastafari, Bunny Wailer’s musical lifestyle and legacy as well and providing a stage for the new reggae generation. A live music segment featuring young Reggae artistes eager to showcase their talent, including WAIL’s brand ambassadors, has also been added.