His funeral service took place this morning at the New Testament Church of God, Arcadian Gardens in N22, where a number of his family, friends and fans gathered to show their respect.

A musical tribute is expected to take place from 6.30pm this evening at the Camden Arts Centre, where some of his peers will pay homage through song. Performances are expected from General Saint, Peter Hunnigale, Tippa Irie, Donovan Kingjay, Kitty Corbin, Diana Black and Sparky Rugged, to name a few.

Credit: Young Warrior

Born in 1957, Michael Prophet hailed from Maxfield Avenue in Kingston, Jamaica and went on to enjoy a fruitful career spanning over 40 years.

Bursting onto the scene in the late 1970s, he was one of the artistes who helped to bring Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes’ Volcano label to prominence during the early 1980s. A particular song that he voiced through this stable, ‘Gunman’ (below), went on to become one of his biggest hits.

He also worked extensively with acclaimed producer Vivian “Yabby You” Jackson and released a total of 29 albums between 1979 – 2009.

One of the ‘riginal roots reggae stalwarts to emerge through the 1980s dancehall era, Prophet died in London on 16 December 2017 at the age of 60. He had been diagnosed with terminal cancer but eventually succumbed to cardiac arrest.

Up until the very end of his life, Prophet remained in demand and delivered energetic performances, particularly in Europe and the United Kingdom – where he had been living. Fans would flock to enjoy his regular appearances at events such as Rototom Sunsplash and the annual Lambeth Country Show. He was slated to perform at flagship festival Rebel Salute in Jamaica, last month, but died before this could take place.

He is survived by seven children.

Written by Nadine White

Reference 

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