R.I.P. Reggae Artist Gregory Isaacs aka Cool Ruler

The Reggae Community mourns the loss of one of its legends, Gregory Isaacs.

Isaacs was born on July 15, 1951 in Kingston, Jamaica and gained recognition and love in the 1970s and 1980s for hits such as “Night Nurse” and “Rumors.”

Gregory Anthony Isaacs was a Jamaican reggae musician described as “the most exquisite vocalist in reggae” by one of The New York Time journalist.

Nicknamed the ‘Cool Ruler’ by his fans, for hissuave and emotive voice, Isaacs scored many hits during the 1970s and 80s, pioneering his own sound by mixing traditional Reggae with Dancehall, thereby reinventing the genre and expanding its global fan base into what it is today.

He cut his first single at age 17, under the pseudonym Winston Sinclair.Gregory Isaacs’ career stretched over 30 years, delighting his fans with a prolific music productions that includes classic such as “Night Nurse”, “Hard Drugs”, “Love Is Overdue” and many more, leaving his mark on the gender forever.

When talking about this iconic Jamaican artist we cannot forget to mention that he has been a precursor of so much music from roots reggae, to early dancehall, early ragga, Lovers rock, Reggae fusion, making this legendary artist’s name resonates with many different generations and more to come and making his name last forever in Reggae Music and music in general.

“Gregory Isaacs leaves behind an iconic history and catalog that is unparalleled,” reveals VP Records CEO, Christopher Chin. “He devoted his entire life to music and his memory will forever live on with us – through his music and the legacy he leaves behind.”

Let’s remember him via his words, during a 2001 interview, when Mr. Isaacs, that died at his home in London at the age of 60, words he used to define his legacy.

“Look at me as a man who performed works musically,” he said. “Who uplift people who need up-liftment, mentally, physically, economically — all forms. Who told the people to live with love ’cause only love can conquer war, and to understand themselves so that they can understand others.”

Isaacs fought a year-long battle with lung cancer before passing away on October 25, 2010 at his home in London, at the age of 59.

Celebrate his life and music via Gregory Isaacs Mix – Best Of Gregory Isaacs – Reggae Lovers Rock & Roots. A selection of hits from the cool ruler himself the great Mr Isaacs, one of Reggae music’s Legends.

LISTEN TO GREGORY ISAACS “Cool Down The Pace”

Gregory Isaacs Mix – Best Of Gregory Isaacs – Reggae Lovers Rock & Roots