'Iconic musician' Aston 'Family Man' Barrett dies at 77
Published:Saturday | February 3, 2024 | 6:30 PM
Aston 'Family Man' Barrett, the original bassist for Bob Marley and the Wailers, has died. Aston Barrett Jr, his son, took to Instagram to share the news of his father's passing after a prolonged medical battle. Barrett died at the University of Miami Hospital in Florida in the United States on Saturday morning. He was 77.
"With the heaviest of hearts, we share the news of the passing of our beloved Aston 'Family Man' Barrett after a long medical battle. This morning, the world lost not just an iconic musician and the backbone of the Wailers but a remarkable human being whose legacy is as immense as his talent. Our family is asking for privacy during this challenging time, as words cannot express our profound loss," said Barrett Jr in a heartfelt statement.
A member of Bob Marley and the Wailers and Lee Scratch Perry and the Upsetters, along with his brother Carlton, Aston Barrett's impact on the music scene was colossal, earning him well-deserved recognition and honours throughout his illustrious career. In 2012, he was bestowed with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Bass Player magazine. The year 2020 saw him ranked as the number-one bassist by the staff of Bass Player in their list of '20 legendary players who shaped the sound of electric bass'. While in 2020, Rolling Stone magazine named him number 28 on its list of ‘The 50 Greatest Bassists of All Time’. The Government of Jamaica inducted Barrett into the Order of Distinction (Commander class) in 2021.
"Aston’s music brought joy to millions, and his influence on reggae is beyond measure. He was a man of few words, but his words carried wisdom, kindness, and love. His bass lines were not just the foundation of the Wailers’ music but the heartbeat of a genre that has touched hearts around the globe," said Barrett Jr.
Beyond his musical prowess, Barrett was a mentor and, above all, a devoted family man. His family expressed gratitude to everyone who has offered love, support, and comforting words.
"We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of the journey with us. Your love, support, and kind words have been a source of strength during this difficult time. Let us remember Family Man for the legend he was and the incredible memories he has given us. In his own words, 'The older the moon, the brighter it shines,' a reminder of the enduring light he shared with us all, shining brighter with each passing day," continued Barrett Jr.
PIONEER
Heartfelt tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry and fellow musicians, underscoring the profound impact Barrett has had on the world of music.
Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange hailed Barrett's impact and sent condolences to members of Barrett's family and the entertainment fraternity.
"This pioneer of Jamaican music was also a mentor to many Jamaican artistes and musicians including the ‘Riddim Twins’, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare. As we commemorate Reggae Month 2024, I wish to express my sincere condolences to his widow, his children, his relatives and to members of the local and international reggae music fraternity. May the Angels welcome home Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett to Mount Zion," posted Grange on Instagram.
Actress Lashana Lynch, who portrays Rita Marley in the biopic Bob Marley: One Love, shared her condolences with Barrett Jr, saying, "King, sending you and the family all of the power and vibrations right now."
"And he will continue making music in the ancestral realms that resonate throughout the universe. Give thanks for his earthly life of absolute greatness," wrote Grammy Award-winning reggae artiste Kabaka Pyramid.
Reggae star Jesse Royal shared his condolences with a heartfelt "Jah Jah!!! Sincerest condolences! Eternal gratitude!"
Naomi Cowan, who played Marcia Griffiths in the One Love biopic, spoke of Aston Barrett's enduring legacy, stating, "His light shall continue to radiate through his family."
Warrior King joined the chorus of condolences, offering his deepest sympathies to the entire family. He acknowledged the solid foundation laid by Aston Barrett, emphasising that he is now with the ancestors. "Jah know all things, be strong; he is with the ancestors now. Your dad laid a solid foundation for all of us. Prayers and strength."