– The Wailers guitarist Donald Kinsey passes away
– Long-tailed keyword relevance for The Wailers guitarist’s death.
Legendary American Blues guitarist Donald Kinsey, known for his collaborations with Reggae icons Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, has sadly passed away at the age of 70. Kinsey’s death occurred on February 6, coinciding with Marley’s 79th birthday. This news comes just days after the death of Aston “Family Man” Barrett, the legendary bassist for The Wailers, on February 3 in Miami.
Donald Kinsey’s musical journey began at a young age when he started playing and performing alongside his father, bluesman Lester “Big Daddy” Kinsey, in the band Big Daddy Kinsey and his Fabulous Sons. Even as a child, Kinsey’s talent and proficiency in the blues earned him the nickname “B.B. King Jr.”.
After graduating from high school, Kinsey embarked on a touring career with renowned blues guitarist Albert King. He not only played guitar for King but also took on the role of leading the blues legend’s band. Kinsey later formed a band called White Lightnin’ with his brother Ralph, which was signed to Island Records. It was through this connection that Kinsey discovered the captivating world of reggae music and had the opportunity to meet two of its greatest icons, Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, in 1975.
Kinsey’s collaboration with Peter Tosh led him to play guitar on Tosh’s groundbreaking debut album, “Legalize It,” released in 1976. He also joined Bob Marley and The Wailers for their album “Rastaman Vibration” that same year, which went on to become the 48th best-selling album on the Billboard Soul Charts.
Despite being considered an integral part of the “Rastaman Vibration” album, Kinsey eventually parted ways with The Wailers. However, his connection with the band was unforgettable. In December 1976, when gunmen attacked Marley’s home in an assassination attempt, Kinsey was present. Miraculously, he managed to escape the gunfire and performed with the band at the historic free concert, Smile Jamaica, just two days later.
Following his departure from The Wailers, Kinsey took a break from touring but later returned to support both Peter Tosh and the American gospel group Staple Singers. In 1984, Kinsey, his brothers, and their father formed the Kinsey Report, a band that recorded and performed together for many years. In his later years, he rejoined The Wailers Band, a spinoff of Bob Marley and The Wailers formed by Aston Barrett in 1989.
In 2020, The Wailers Band, featuring Donald Kinsey, released the album “One World” on Sony Music Latin. Produced by Emilio Estefan, the album received a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album, showcasing Kinsey’s continued musical prowess and dedication to the genre.
Donald Kinsey’s contributions to the world of blues and reggae music will forever be remembered and cherished. His immense talent and collaborations with iconic artists have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Though the cause of his death is not known at this time, his legacy as a legendary guitarist and performer will live on in the hearts of music lovers around the world.
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