Milton “Prilly” Hamilton, the original lead singer of the legendary reggae band Third World, passed away in Florida on February 17 at the age of 74. His death was confirmed by former bandmate and drummer Willie Stewart.
Hamilton had been hospitalized in Kingston in early January before traveling to Florida for further treatment for an undisclosed illness.
A founding member of Third World alongside Stephen “Cat” Coore and Michael “Ibo” Cooper, Hamilton was instrumental in shaping the band’s early sound. Before Third World, he began his singing career with the group Hells Angels while in high school and later joined Inner Circle, where he met Cooper.
While passionate about music, Hamilton initially pursued a diploma in Medical Technology at the University of the West Indies, Mona. However, his love for performing led him to focus on a music career full-time.
Hamilton led vocals on Third World’s self-titled debut album, released in 1976 by Island Records. His distinct voice was featured on tracks such as Brand New Beggar, Freedom Song, Satta Massagana, and Slavery Days. His time with the band also saw him perform on some of reggae’s biggest stages. In 1974, Third World opened for The Jackson 5 at Jamaica’s National Stadium. The following year, they supported Bob Marley at the Lyceum in London, the same venue where Marley’s iconic Live! album was recorded.
That same year, Hamilton left Third World to pursue business interests but remained active in the music industry. He recorded solo hits such as Beautiful People, Missing You, Too Many Hearts, and Night Doctor. At one stage in his career, he was managed by Full Force, the American production team known for working with Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam, James Brown, and Janet Jackson. He also collaborated with reggae icons Sly and Robbie.
Despite stepping away from the mainstream spotlight, Hamilton remained a well-respected cabaret performer, gracing stages in Jamaica and beyond. He even opened for Dionne Warwick at one of her Jamaican concerts.
Last March, Hamilton made a special appearance at Stewart’s Rhythms of Africa show in Miramar, Florida, in tribute to Ibo Cooper, who passed away in October 2023. His passing marks yet another loss for Third World, following the deaths of Bunny Rugs in 2014, Carrot Jarrett in 2018, Cornel Marshall earlier this year, and Rupert Bent Jr. last January.
Hamilton is survived by five children, six grandchildren, and several siblings.
