Dean Fraser ADD

Olivia Grange Announces Plan for Robbie Shakespeare’s Farewell

01/29/2022 by Press Release

The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has announced that the public will be able to participate in the farewell to the late Reggae musician and record producer, Robbie Shakespeare of Sly & Robbie fame.

Minister Grange, who is handling the arrangements in collaboration with the Shakespeare family, said the public will be able to view the body of the late bassist on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

The body will be available for viewing from midday to 3pm. Condolence books will also be opened at the Centre. Members of the public attending the viewing must observe the covid-19 protocols including mask wearing, hand sanitising and physical distancing.

The body will travel from Perry’s Funeral Home in Spanish Town, St Catherine and will pass several studios — where Robbie Shakespeare made music — on its way to the Centre. Among the studios are One Pop Music Studio, Red Hills Road; Harmony House Studio, Dumbarton Avenue; MixingLab Studio, Dumbarton Avenue; and Anchor Studio, Windsor Avenue. There will be no stops along the way.

“We know that members of the public have been waiting for a chance to say goodbye to Robbie, who — along with Sly — has contributed so much to our music. As we are still operating under covid conditions, we cannot host a big event. But we think this an appropriate way to allow our people to express their appreciation for this talented musician while observing the necessary health and safety protocols,” said Minister Grange.

The funeral service and interment will be attended by close family and friends and will not be open to the general public. However, arrangements will be made for live streaming of the service on Monday, February 7, 2022 on social media and PBCJ.

Minister Olivia Grange, will do the Remembrance at the funeral service on Monday, February 7. The service, which will not be open to the general public, will be attended by close family and friends. Robbie Shakespeare’s musical partner, Sly Dunbar, will lead a musical tribute at the funeral service with arrangement by Dean Fraser, and featuring Richie Stephens and Luciano. There will also be performances by Chevelle Franklyn and Pam Hall.