Lowell Fillmore “Sly” Dunbar, the iconic Jamaican drummer and producer best known as one half of the legendary reggae rhythm duo Sly & Robbie, has died at the age of 73. Dunbar passed away on Monday morning at his home in Kingston, Jamaica, a death confirmed by his wife, Thelma Dunbar, who found him unresponsive and called for medical help. He had been experiencing health issues for some time, though no official cause of death has been released.

Born on May 10, 1952, Dunbar began playing drums as a youth and rose to prominence in the early 1970s alongside bassist Robbie Shakespeare. Together they became known as the “Riddim Twins,” providing the rhythmic backbone on countless reggae, dub and dancehall recordings, helping define the sound of modern Jamaican music and expanding its influence globally.

Dunbar’s work spanned decades and included collaborations with reggae greats such as Black Uhuru, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer and Jimmy Cliff, as well as international artists including Bob Dylan, Grace Jones, Mick Jagger and No Doubt. In 1980, he and Shakespeare co-founded Taxi Records, a label that supported and produced a range of reggae and dancehall talent.

Over his career, Dunbar earned widespread recognition, including multiple Grammy nominations and wins for his influential contributions to reggae music. His partnership with Shakespeare endured until Shakespeare’s death in 2021, and together they left an indelible mark on global music. Tributes from fans and fellow musicians have poured in following news of Dunbar’s death, underscoring his impact on the genre and beyond.

Dunbar is survived by his wife and family, and his passing marks a significant moment in the history of reggae, closing the final chapter on one of its most influential figures.