Jamaica and the global music community are mourning the loss of one of the island’s most beloved radio icons — Barrington “Barry G” Gordon, whose unmistakable voice and boundless energy transformed the sound of Jamaican radio and influenced generations of broadcasters across Jamaica and beyond.
“Barry was a unique broadcaster with a remarkable skill in entertaining his audience,” British radio legend Sir David Rodigan told Caribbean National Weekly about his longtime friend and arch rival.
“We became very good friends as a result of him welcoming me into Jamaican radio back in the early 80s, where our long-standing partnership took hold and blossomed over the years as two fellow broadcasters with a passion for sharing our love of Jamaican music with the world.”
Their bond was on full display in 2019 at Groovin’ In The Park in Queens, New York, when the two reunited for the first time in decades. The event — billed as a historic reunion between two of reggae radio’s greatest — drew thousands of nostalgic fans eager to relive the legendary “clashes” that defined 1980s radio.
For Barry G, that reunion also marked a career highlight. He was presented with a US Congressional proclamation from Jamaican-American Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke in recognition of his contribution to broadcasting and Jamaica.
“I always contend that encouragement sweetens labour,” Barry G told me after receiving the honor. “To receive this award certainly sweetens my work in broadcasting and reggae. I am elated to know I’ve made my mark in the industry.”
Indeed, Barry G’s mark was deep. He was responsible for breaking hit records by artists such as Yellowman, Barrington Levy, Beenieman, and ‘Girly Girly’ DJ Sophia George, while shaping the sound and tone of Jamaican radio with segments like his unforgettable “Brainstorm” quiz show — a mix of humor, intellect, and national pride.
From his early days at the “ruler of afternoon radio” at JBC on the ‘Two To Six Supermix’ to his final years at Mello FM in Montego Bay, Barry G’s proved his mettle with his innovation, humor, his love for Jamaica, and his cultural pride. He was not just a broadcaster but a cultural ambassador whose style blurred the line between entertainment and enlightenment.
Barry was a proud graduate of Kingston College. His voice became a daily companion for millions of listeners at home in Jamaica, bringing music, information, and inspiration in equal parts. Years later, he brought that same pride to listeners in New York, Miami, Canada, Toronto, and London when he became a member of the International Link with Squeeze (NY), Gammo Speng (London), Lisa B (Miami), and Luther Brown in Canada.
As he once said, “I always innovate and never copy anyone’s style. In an unselfish way, I deliberately go out of my way to inform and educate.”
Even into his later years, Barry G showed no sign of slowing down. In 2022, he planned a “Barry G & Friends Family Reunion,” a four-day celebration of Jamaica’s music and culture in Negril. After a brief hiatus following a stroke, he returned to the airwaves and became involved in health advocacy and community service.
Rodigan summed up his friend’s legacy best, saying, “Barry was not just a broadcaster, he was a bridge between Jamaica and the world. His voice carried the heartbeat of the island.”
Barry Gordon died at the age of 70 years old. He is survived by his wife, Josette Gordon.
