Veteran Jamaican reggae artist Leroy Gibbons has passed away following a collapse at a recording studio in Hanover on Tuesday morning.
The news was confirmed by King Jammy, the legendary producer with whom Gibbons had a longstanding professional relationship. Sources close to the artist indicate that he had been experiencing respiratory issues in recent times.
Gibbons was renowned for his contributions to reggae music, particularly in the lovers rock and dancehall genres.
Gibbons’ musical journey began in Kingston, Jamaica, before he relocated to Toronto, Canada, where he continued to develop his career. He recorded for King Jammy’s label, contributing to the reggae scene with both original tracks and covers.
He gained prominence in the 1980s with hits like “Four Season Lover,” “Samfie Girl,” and “Little More Like You.” His soulful voice and romantic ballads earned him a dedicated fan base both in Jamaica and internationally. His 1988 album Four Season Lover remains a standout in his discography.
Tragically, in October 2017, Gibbons was shot in Portmore, Jamaica, during a walk with a friend. The incident left him with a fractured pelvic bone, but he expressed gratitude for his survival, viewing the experience as a spiritual awakening.
In recent years, Gibbons continued to engage with his audience, releasing the gospel-themed EP Heaven Bound in 2022, which featured classics such as “Heaven Sounding Sweet” and “Peace in the Valley.” This project marked his return to gospel music, a genre he had been part of in his early years.
Additionally, in April 2025, Leroy Gibbons reunited with The Gospel Proclaimers for a special performance at the Arise2025 concert, celebrating 50 years of making music in Jamaica and the Caribbean. The group, formed in 1975 at Kingsway High School, was once Jamaica’s most sought-after gospel groups.
Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to Gibbons on social media, writing: “My condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Leroy Gibbons, a cherished son of Jamaica whose voice helped shape the golden era of reggae and lovers rock. Leroy Gibbons gave us timeless hits … that captured the hearts of many and echoed through dances, sound systems, and homes across Jamaica and the diaspora. His smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics made him a standout talent, and his contribution to reggae music remains invaluable. Leroy’s passing is a great loss to our cultural landscape, but his music will continue to live on, reminding us of the beauty, soul, and emotion that reggae brings to the world. On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, I extend my deepest sympathies. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
As of now, further details regarding funeral arrangements and tributes are forthcoming.
