Bunny Wailer’s estate celebrates Supreme Court ruling, Amazon deal

Following a three-year litigation battle, the Bunny Wailer Estate has finally received the green light by the Supreme Court of Jamaica to initiate the process of administration following the passing of Neville O’Riley ‘Bunny’ Livingston on March 2, 2021. On June 28, the court ruled in favour of Bunny Wailer’s 13 children being recognised as the only beneficiaries of the estate.

The judge recognised Wailer’s eldest son, entertainer, producer and communications specialist, Abijah Asadenaki Livingston aka Naki Wailer, as the estate’s authorised representative. The estate is guided through the administration process by law firm Nunes Scholefied, Deleon and Co.

“We give thanks to the Most High Jah as we remain focused on the estate’s restoration, reproduction of our father’s vast catalogue, and the revamping of our father’s record label, Solomonic Productions Limited established 1981,” Abijah” said in a press release.

Bunny Wailer, through his Solomonic label, produced a plethora of reggae stalwarts including Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Marcia Griffiths, Patra, Queen Ifrica and Ruffian to name a few. Solomonic Productions Ltd is internationally acclaimed as the copyright holders for international dance hit Electric Boogie, written and produced by Bunny Wailer, which inspired the creation of the Electric Slide by American choreographer, musician, and Broadway performer Richard L. ‘Ric’ Silver in 1976.

“The label, in the past, has secured collaborations with major brands, including Warner Bros, Corona, Cardi B, Paramount Pen”, and JEEP and is now pleased to announce our latest collaboration with Amazon,” the release stated further.

Electric Boogie lyrics is licensed to be displayed on Amazon delivery trucks highlighting the company’s mandate to lower their carbon footprint. Solomonic Productions Ltd is now revamping production of Bunny Wailer’s rich archive guided by Grammy-winning producer Nigel Burrel and legendary record producer/sound system heavyweight Jack Scorpio.

NEW RELEASES

Abijah, having a longstanding career in the Caribbean multi-media industry, is invested in developing content, products and experiences synonymous with Bunny Wailer’s brand image collaboratively with his siblings. This is evident in the continued production of Rootsman Skankin’, an annual event celebrating Bunny Wailer’s birthday, life and legacy.

Rootsman Skankin hosted its seventh staging on April 10, live from Irie FM, which, in 2018 honoured Bunny Wailer with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

“We are just giving thanks and representing the original Don Dada to the best of our ability, as our best is what his prestigious brand deserves. We are excited to continue collaborations with the Tosh and Marley estates respectively,” Abijah shared.

Solomonic Productions Ltd is gearing up for its first release in almost a decade with Rock and Groove Remastered on September 23. The album featuring household hits like Cool Runnings, Ballroom Floor and Rootsman Skanking will be available on all streaming platforms and on limited edition Vinyl.

September 23rd is the day of Solomonic Productions Limited’s incorporation in 1981, and the birthday of Bunny Wailer’s wife, Jean Watt, who has been missing since May 23, 2020, and is one of the company’s directors.

Abijah concluded “We the family remain focused on the preservation and promotion of our father’s iconic legacy, while continuing the never-ending search for our beloved stepmother Sis Jean Watt ... it’s what Don Dada would want.”