The Great Ska Legend has passed away today (4th September 2015) aged 80 following a short time in Hospital. The Reggae Trombonist, born in Cuba, moved to Jamaica with his family at a young age. Influenced by the rich musical culture in Kingston, Rico adopted Rastafarianism and embraced it’s teachings. The Legend later moved to the UK in 1961 and formed a Reggae Group recording hits such as “Man From Wareika,” with Island Records. Observing the growing heavy Punk Rock sound forming in London in the 1970’s, Rico ingeniously fused the Punk Sound with Ska Music. This created many master pieces such as the Number One Hit “A Message To You, Rudy,” with the UK group The Specials. Appreciated for his contributions to Reggae Music within UK, Rico was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) on 12th July 2007. He further received a Silver Musgrave Medal by the Institute of Jamaica in October 2012 for his contribution to Reggae Music in Jamaica. This Great Pioneer of Ska Music will be greatly missed. His talent and contribution has touched many worldwide. May his name Live On and he be remembered as a true Legend.

ARTICLE BY PRINCESS PYHIA – JOURNALIST FOR REGGAE BRITANNIA. @REGGAEBRIT @PRINCESSPYHIA

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