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Dancehall Great Pad Anthony Has Died

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padanthony
Pad Anthony

The reggae and dancehall fraternity has once again been thrown into mourning after the passing of 80s Reggae Dancehall great Pad Anthony, whose real name was Hartley Anthony Wallace.

According to reports Paddy, as he was fondly called, had been suffering from various health issues after he suffered from a heart attack several years ago. Reports of his death surfaced today August 30.

He was a significant contributor to the early raggamuffin sound of the eighties along with other great artists like Tenor Saw, Nitty Gritty, Anthony Red Rose and King Kong.  Paddy is best known for his early sound-clash era with songs such as Ah Murder, Shake Dem Down and many others.  His style of music greatly contributed to the birth of Dancehall.

Paddy was from a family of musicians and his brothers were part of a group called Rags & Riches, which won a 1976 music competition at a festival called “Big Heel Boot and Bellfoot Pants” with the late Freddie McKay.

He introduced his unique sound in 1982 at the famous Channel One recording studios in Kingston.  In 2010 he released a comeback album called the Rhythm Of My Heart. To date, his age hasn’t been confirmed.

pad
Pad Anthony

Other reports indicate that he was active just hours before his death. A close friend of Paddy revealed that an unfortunate turn of events led to his death as it’s suspected that after suffering a stroke he reportedly fell and hit his head.

Many fans of legend expressed their condolences on social media.

“Pad Anthony was one of the most humble and generous artists I ever met. Always with a smile, he loved the soundsystem culture so much and was always happy to help soundboys with great dubplates at modest prices,” said one fan.

“He didn’t voice only for money but for his love for the game and the importance he gave to selectors in their role to spread Jamaican music. A great person and artist gone too soon. My condolences to his wife and children. #padanthony,” he added.

Another fan said, “#restinpower #padanthony One of my favourite singers !!! Thanks for all your music and inspiration !!”

Tributes continue to pour in for the veteran artiste who contributed to changing the face of Jamaican music.