Reggae legend Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry dies aged 85 as Jamaica’s prime minister leads tributes

Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry died at a hospital on Sunday (Picture: Redferns)

Musician Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry has died, it has been confirmed. 

The reggae legend, who had worked with artists such as Bob Marley and the Beastie Boys, died at the Noel Holmes Hospital in Lucea, Jamaica on Sunday.

A cause of death was not revealed.  

Confirming the news and leading tributes, Jamaica’s prime minister Andrew Holness tweeted: ‘My deep condolences to the family, friends, and fans of legendary record producer and singer, Rainford Hugh Perry OD, affectionately known as ‘Lee Scratch’ Perry.

‘Perry was a pioneer in the 1970s’ development of dub music with his early adoption of studio effects to create new instrumentals of existing reggae tracks.

‘He has worked with and produced for various artistes, including Bob Marley and the Wailers, the Congos, Adrian Sherwood, the Beastie Boys, and many others.’ 

Mr Holness added: ‘Undoubtedly, Lee Scratch Perry will always be remembered for his sterling contribution to the music fraternity. May his soul Rest In Peace.’

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