Bunny Rugs

The music fraternity has once again been left reeling with news of the passing of iconic reggae singer William 'Bunny Rugs' Clarke.

Bunny Rugs, who would have turned 66 this Thursday, February 6, passed away last night in a hospital in Orlando, Florida. He had been diagnosed with cancer and had been battling the disease in intensive care.

He had been ailing for some time and was forced out of several Third World dates last year when the band celebrated its 40th anniversary. He was replaced by AJ Brown on those shows.

Clarke took over the reigns of leader of Third World in 1976 but continued to work as a solo artiste. The multi-nominated Grammy award artiste released his final solo album in 2012 titled Time.

His death, which comes at the start of Reggae and black History month has sent shockwaves throughout the industry. Artistes and supporters of Clarke's music took to social media to send condolences to his family.

Wayne Marshall tweeted, "R.I.P to the great Bunny Rugs from the legendary Third World band. You will be missed."

Daughter of the legendary Bob Marley Cedella also took to twitter to write, "Bunny Rugs Fly away Home...Thank you Jah for bringing this powerhouse of a voice into all of our lives ..."

amazing

Still others remembered Clarke for his amazing and distinctive voice.

"Truly saddened about the passing of Bunny Rugs from Third World. Such a distinctive voice. My condolences to his family," was posted by the Leader of the Opposition Andrew Holness.

Tarrus Riley also referred to Clarke as one of the greatest voices who taught him many lessons.

Junior Rodigan, one of Boston's top reggae selectors also paid tribute to the artiste. He tweeted, "In Loving Memory - #Reggae #Legend BUNNY Rugs of Third World Band. Rest In Power THANK YOU for the music."

Tessanne Chin, winner of The Voice 2013, also tweeted, "I just got the saddest news that one of our legends passes away this morning - our Reggae Ambassador, Mr Bunny Rugs. It was an honour to know you sir and a joy and dream come through to sing with you! Thank you for all that you gave the world. May you rest well..."

Meanwhile, Minister of Youth and Culture the Hon Lisa Hanna also paid tribute to Clarke.

"I am sad that Bunny Rugs has passed away and we will no longer be able to go to a venue to watch him perform with his beloved Third World. However, I am grateful and proud of his contribution to music. He was a true reggae ambassador who, along with the rest of Third World, brought Jamaica's music to the world."

Tessanne

Minister Hanna

Tarrus Riley