Joel Chin - Contributed

Popular Reggae label VP Records and the music fraternity are now in mourning following the murder of VP's Joel Chin.

Chin is the grandson of the company's founders Pat and Vincent Chin.

The 35-year-old producer, who was the head of VP's A&R (Artiste & Repertoire) department, was shot and killed on Tuesday night as he drove into his apartment in Stony Hill, St Andrew. According to reports, Chin died instantly in his driveway.

VP Records, whose roster boasts artistes including Beres Hammond, Tarrus Riley and Etana, released a statement saying: "It is with great sadness that VP Records must announce the passing of Joel Chin at the age of 35. Joel was shot last night outside his home in Stony Hill, St Andrew. The cause was not immediately known.

Accomplished producer

"The grandson of VP Records founder Vincent Chin, son of famed Reggae producer Clive Chin and nephew of the owners of VP Records, Chris and Randy Chin, Joel literally grew up in the reggae business and put his vast knowledge and connections at the service of the music he loved passionately."

The statement continued: "An accomplished producer, Joel had moved from New York to Jamaica two years ago to spend more time on music production, song writing and developing rising talents. Joel wrote hit songs for many artistes like Elephant Man and Etana, among many others."

Chin is survived by his mother Juliette, his father Clive, his newborn daughter, two brothers, and three sisters.

Chin joined VP Records in the 90s and was instrumental in launching and fostering the careers of international reggae stars such as Sean Paul, TOK, Beres Hammond, Wayne Wonder, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Morgan Heritage and others, while creating the reggae compilation series: Reggae Gold and Strictly The Best.

With the passing of Chin, a number of artistes have taken to social networking sites such as Twitter to express their condolences.

Sean Paul tweeted: "As another bright light fades, we give thanks for life and reminisce. R.I.P Joel Chin."

Fellow dancehall star Shaggy simply wrote: 'R.I.P. Joel Chin'.

Deejay Spragga Benz also tweeted, 'Deepest condolence to the family and staff of VP Records. The reggae music industry has suffered a great loss. S.W.A Joel. Sleep With Angels'.

Checks made by The STAR with police officials suggest there are no leads in the case so far.