Veteran Jamaican bassist Clifton “Jackie” Jackson, a key figure in the development of reggae and rocksteady music, has died at age 79.
Jackson died Wednesday morning following a lengthy hospitalisation. He had reportedly been receiving treatment at Cornwall Regional Hospital in Montego Bay, St James, where he had spent nearly two months.
The celebrated musician was best known for his work with Toots and the Maytals and was also a highly sought-after session musician whose bass lines featured on recordings by some of Jamaica’s most influential artistes.
His extensive credits include recordings with Bob Marley and the Wailers, Alton Ellis, Ken Boothe, The Melodians and Desmond Dekker. He also worked internationally, including with American singer-songwriter Paul Simon.
Jackson emerged as a prominent musician during Jamaica’s rocksteady era and was a member of Duke Reid’s Supersonics. He played bass on several recordings that became enduring classics, including Alton Ellis’ “Girl I’ve Got a Date” and Desmond Dekker’s “Israelites.”
His work with Bob Marley and the Wailers also included the recording of “Small Axe.”
Despite his long career, Jackson remained active in music and appeared at the Back 2 Bass-es event in Kingston in February, alongside fellow veteran bassists Lloyd Parks and Boris Gardiner.
Jackson was married to the late Jamaican singer Karen Smith. He is survived by four daughters.
His death marks the passing of one of the musicians whose understated but influential bass work helped shape the sound of Jamaican popular music.
Advertise with McKoy’s News!
🚀 Boost Your Business with McKoy’s News! 🚀
Let us help you grow your brand with our comprehensive advertising solutions:
Create Your Own Business Page:
Showcase your business with a personalized page on McKoy’s News. Highlight your products or services with multiple photos, contact information, and detailed descriptions.
Engaging Banner Ads:
Capture attention with visually stunning banner ads that promote your brand across our website, reaching a large audience with every click.
Dynamic Video Ads:
Tell your story with impactful video advertisements, designed to engage viewers and drive traffic to your business.
Feature Articles:
Gain credibility and visibility with feature articles on McKoy’s News. Share your success stories, latest offerings, and expert insights with our readers.
Ready to Elevate Your Business?
Contact us today and let McKoy’s News be your partner in success.
Follow us on social media
Related posts:
Portlander Versi scores and maintains first number 1 hit album on the US iTunes Chart
Entertainer Aidonia’s House Raided in St Andrew Police Operation
Leoda Bradshaw and Co-Accused Remanded — Trial Set for 2026
Kingston Teacher Charged After Gun, Ammo, and Fake Weapons Found in Early Morning Raid
Sangster’s Airport: Flight Cancellations due to Tropical Storm Melissa
Over 2,600 Health Workers Hit by Hurricane Melissa — 217 Left Homeless, Says Tufton