– Aston Barrett, Bob Marley Bassist, Dies at 77
– Aston Barrett, Renowned Bassist for Bob Marley, Passes Away at 77.
Aston Francis “Family Man” Barrett, Reggae Bassist, Passes Away at 77
Aston Francis “Family Man” Barrett, the renowned reggae bassist who achieved fame as a member of Lee “Scratch” Perry’s Upsetters and played on Bob Marley’s greatest hits, has sadly passed away. The news of Barrett’s death was confirmed by BBC News, stating that he died at a hospital in Florida on February 3 after a prolonged battle with illness.
Barrett’s son, Aston Barrett Jr., took to social media to share the heartbreaking news, expressing that the world has not only lost an iconic musician and the backbone of The Wailers but also an extraordinary human being whose legacy is as vast as his talent. Aston Francis Barrett was 77 years old at the time of his passing.
A Legendary Musician with Humble Beginnings
Aston Barrett was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica. He often recounted the story of how he crafted his first bass guitar using plywood, a curtain rod, and an ashtray. Alongside his brother, Carlton, who played the drums, Aston formed the rhythm section of a group known as the Hippy Boys. Their exceptional musical abilities caught the attention of Lee “Scratch” Perry, who invited them to join his Upsetters band for a UK tour.
A Pivotal Role in Bob Marley and the Wailers
In 1974, Aston and Carlton Barrett made the decision to part ways with Perry and join forces with Bob Marley and the Wailers. It was during this time that Barrett’s bass lines became integral to some of Marley’s most beloved songs, including “Could You Be Loved,” “Get Up Stand Up,” “Jamming,” “No Woman, No Cry,” and “I Shot the Sheriff.” Even when restrictions prevented Barrett from collaborating outside of Marley’s band, he continued to play a vital role in Jamaica’s reggae scene, serving as a mentor to other prominent artists such as Sly & Robbie.
Following Bob Marley’s untimely death, Aston Barrett remained committed to carrying on the musical legacy of the Wailers. His contributions to the reggae genre and his unwavering dedication to his craft were widely recognized and celebrated.
A Spiritual Connection and Musical Inspiration
In his interviews, Aston Barrett often spoke about the deep spiritual connection he shared with other influential figures in the reggae scene, particularly Bob Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, and Burning Spear’s Winston Rodney. Despite being born and raised in Kingston, Barrett spent much of his time in natural surroundings, such as by the riverside and up in the mountains. This connection with nature resonated with Perry, who saw their shared spiritual vibe and recognized their ability to connect musically.
Barrett described the inspiration that flowed between him, Marley, and Perry, surpassing mere intellectual understanding and manifesting as a physical sensation in his stomach. He believed that what they created together was truly unique and unmatched by anyone else.
The passing of Aston Francis “Family Man” Barrett is a profound loss for the music world. His musical contributions, both as part of the Upsetters and the Wailers, have left an indelible mark on reggae history. As fans and fellow musicians mourn his departure, his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
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1. Aston “Family Man” Barrett, Bob Marley Bassist, Dies at 77
2. Aston “Family Man” Barrett, Legendary Bob Marley Bassist, Passes Away at Age 77.
