– Bob Marley and the Wailers bassist death at 77
– Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports on Bob Marley and the Wailers bassist passing away.
Renowned Bassist and Pioneer of Reggae, Aston “Family Man” Barrett, Passes Away at 77
Date: February 4, 2024 Time: 04:21:40
Aston “Family Man” Barrett, the legendary Jamaican bassist known for his influential contributions to reggae and dub music, has sadly passed away at the age of 77. Born in 1946 and raised in Kingston, Barrett played a significant role in shaping the sound of reggae and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
A Musical Journey of Soul and Bass
Barrett’s musical journey began in his childhood, where he showcased his talent for soul music on the radio. However, it was his transition to playing the bass that would define his career. According to The Guardian, Barrett’s first bass was a homemade creation, crafted from plywood, a cornice, and even an old ashtray. This innovative spirit would become a hallmark of his style.
Barrett’s unique approach to playing the bass was often likened to singing. In an interview with Bass Player magazine in 2007, he expressed, “When I play bass, it’s like I’m singing. I write a melodic line, and I look like I’m singing like a baritone.” This distinctive technique added a melodic quality to his basslines, setting him apart from his peers.
A Collaborative Force in the Reggae World
Together with his brother Carlton, Barrett played with several notable bands, including Bob Marley & the Wailers, the Hippy Boys, and Lee “Scratch” Perry’s The Upsetters. His collaborations extended beyond performing, as he also took on the role of mentor to many Jamaican musicians, including the famed reggae producing duo Sly & Robbie.
It was during his time with Bob Marley & the Wailers in the 1970s that Barrett truly rose to prominence. He became the leader of Marley’s backing band and co-produced the group’s albums, contributing to the creation of iconic records such as “Burnin'” and “Uprising.” Barrett’s influence and talent played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of these beloved albums.
A Lasting Legacy
Barrett’s impact on the music industry extended far beyond his collaborations with Bob Marley. He continued to tour with various iterations of the Wailers, showcasing his unparalleled bass skills to audiences worldwide. In 2015, NME readers recognized his immense talent by voting him the 25th best bassist of all time.
In 2021, Barrett received the distinguished Order of Distinction (Commander Class) from the 59th National Independence Awards and the 59th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence, further solidifying his status as a musical pioneer and cultural icon.
In his own words, Barrett once reflected on his remarkable career, saying, “I played before Bob, with Bob, and after Bob, and along the way I created a whole new concept of playing bass. It’s just my thing. It’s my destiny.” His unwavering passion and talent will forever be remembered and celebrated in the annals of music history.
The cause of Aston “Family Man” Barrett’s death has not been announced at this time.
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– Bob Marley and the Wailers bassist dies at
– Rossiyskaya Gazeta Bob Marley and the Wailers bassist dies at.
