LEGENDARY DJ and sound system pioneer Jah Shaka has passed away.
He leaves behind a legacy that has shaped reggae music for generations to come.
Ragge icon Jah Shaka has passed away[/caption]
Who was Jah Shaka?
Jah Shaka, also known as the Zulu Warrior, was born in Clarendon Parish, Jamaica.
He moved to London in 1956 with his parents when he was eight years old.
Shaka was responsible for a number of dub and reggae’s most iconic tracks, as well as running his own record label, Jah Shaka Music.
The label released tracks from the likes of Max Romeo and Johnny Clark, as well as many of his own.
He also owned his own Soundsystem called The Jah Shaka Sound since 1970.
He built it after learning and working as a sound system engineer under Freddie Cloudburst.
Throughout his career, he was known for his commitment to social and political consciousness.
He became a focal point for African-Caribbean communities in London and beyond.
Shaka featured in the seminal 1980 film Babylon and used his music as a platform to address important issues such as inequality, injustice, and oppression.
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As an inspirational figure, he arguably changed the face of British music.
His music created a distinct and powerful sound that captured audiences around the world.
When did Jah Shaka die?
The news was confirmed on April 12, by fellow Jamaican artist Dennis Alcapone. “Just getting some sad news that the great Jah Shaka has passed away,” he wrote on Facebook.
“The Zulu warrior left us. Very sad indeed. More to come on that. May his soul forever rest in perfect peace.”
At this time the cause of death is unknown
Who has paid tribute to Jah Shaka?
Many have been paying their tribute since the news broke.
DJ Jumpin Jack Frost wrote: “The king of Kings has left us. The greatest soundman that ever lived.”
Dubstep producer The Bug wrote: “So sad to read Jah Shaka has departed this planet.. Rest in peace.
“A heroic figure who kept Dub alive, when few cared… I spent many all nighters being transfixed by his passion and selections..”
Trevor Jackson paid his tribute by saying: “Had a lot of wild club experiences in my time but nothing could beat stumbling into the Rocket hazy headed & bleary-eyed becoming overwhelmed by the power of bass.
“Formative years, divine sounds, THE master.”
