The Jamaican music fraternity is in mourning following the death of former member of internationally acclaimed Third World band, Irvin “Carrot” Jarrett on Tuesday. Jarrett was 69.
Jarrett’s widow Alisia, confirmed reports that he was found dead at home in the morning.
Entertainment Minister Olivia Grange expressed sadness at the sudden passing of the musician who was also a well known Naturopathic Health Practitioner.
“A cloud of sorrow has settled over the music fraternity and those in health care, in particular, with the sudden passing today of Irvin ‘Carrot’ Jarrett,” Grange said.
Died in peace
The Entertainment Minister said shortly after she was informed of Jarrett’s death, she spoke with his wife who said she wanted everyone to know he “was at peace.” She added that Jarrett, who was regarded as one of the world’s foremost percussionists and performers, and who had charted courses in Integrative Health Healing and Wellness for the past two decades, would leave a void difficult to fill. “This is so because wrapped in ‘Carrot’ was a percussionist, singer, drummer, dancer, performer, concert producer, inventor, songwriter, painter and teacher.
Grange recalled that he was one of the original members of Third World, assisting the band to establish itself and staying with it for 16 years until his departure in 1989.
Jarrett’s percussion genius was heard in Third World hits like “96 Degrees in the Shade”, “Always Around”, and “Now That We Found Love.”
Contributed to Third World becoming an institution
“Carrot’s talent no doubt contributed to Third World becoming what has been described as more than just one of the top reggae bands of all time, but an institution that held firm to the cultural and ancestral roots of its members while pushing forward the cutting edge of music worldwide. An institution whose themes are positive, progressive and internationally relevant,” Grange said. She recalled that “Carrot” once said “I would like to be known as a positive potent power to those whose lives I’ve touched, while leaving a worthwhile legacy that will triumph over the rigors of space and time.”
