What was Robbie Shakespeare’s cause of death? How did he die? ROBBIE Shakespeare was an American bassist who was one-half of the reggae duo Sly & Robbie.
Robert Warren Dale Shakespeare was a Jamaican bass guitarist and record producer, best known as one half of the reggae rhythm section and production duo Sly and Robbie, with drummer Sly Dunbar.
On December 8, 2021, it was reported that Shakespeare had passed away.
What was Robbie Shakespeare’s cause of death?
Although his cause of death has not yet been confirmed, The Gleaner reported that Shakespeare was struggling with his kidney health.
He was reportedly living in Florida at the time of his death, away from his home country of Jamaica.
Olivia “Basby” Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Entertainment and Culture, released a statement to the Jamaica Observer confirming his passing.
“Robbie’s loss will be severely felt by the industry at home and abroad. My condolences to those he leaves behind,” she said.
Shakespeare and fellow bandmate Sly Dunbar were affectionately known as the “Riddim Twins.”
What are Robbie Shakespeare’s greatest hits?
Sly and Robbie’s most notable songs include Boops, Star Across the Sky, and Taxi Connection.
He also lent his bassist skills to artists like Gwen Guthrie, Grace Jones, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Bob Dylan, and Peter Tosh.
In July 2020, he placed 17th on the 50 Greatest Bassists of All Time list compiled by Rolling Stone.
“No matter how much people hail Sly and Robbie as the legends, and despite two Grammy wins and 11 nominations, we never ever feel like anything we get in life, we must get it,” Shakespeare told The Gleaner in 2020.
“There have been a lot of sleepless nights and ‘eatless’ nights, too. Nuff time we go to bed hungry, so we remember these things and take stock. There are so many other great bassists out there who they could have chosen, and yet they chose me, and I am grateful.”
What did people say about his death?
Twitter users took to the platform to express their condolences over the news of Shakespeare’s death.
“Robbie Shakespeare R.I.P Greatest bass player in the entire universe PERIOD,” one user wrote.
“Robbie has left us. I had the honour to meet him in Jamaica in 1997. Rock In Peace,” another said.
“RIP Robbie Shakespeare. This man’s work as part of the legendary production duo Sly & Robbie and for many others will never ever be forgotten. Gutted. Fly high Basspeare!” a third posted.
One fan sentimentally penned: “Words can’t do justice to the impact of Robbie Shakespeare’s bass playing, unique musicality & rhythmical senses on the musical world. Also the loveliest, funniest gentleman and gave me the best stings for my radio show on every occasion. Rest In Power.”
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