Jo Mersa Marley, Son Of Stephen Marley, Dead At 31
Tributes have begun coming in for recording artiste Jo Mersa Marley, the son of Stephen Marley and grandson of Bob and Rita Marley, who was found dead this afternoon, in the USA at the age of 31.
According to the US Sun, Jo Mersa, whose given name was Joseph Marley, was found unresponsive in a vehicle, but the cause of death is not immediately clear.
Music platform Tidal expressed condolences on its Twitter page this afternoon, noting: “Forever in our hearts”.
Forever in our hearts. RIP Jo Mersa Marley. 🕯️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/hWGbYxV9d5
— TIDAL (@TIDAL) December 27, 2022
While there has been no official public statement from the Marley clan as yet, some of the singer’s followers and musical compatriots have taken to his Instagram page to express their condolences, among them, producer Walshy Fire.
“Jah knows. His talent and intelligence was insane. Love you king. So glad I got to work with you,” Walshy Fire wrote.
South Florida-based WZPP Radio, was among the first to break the news and also provided some insight on the reason for Marley’s untimely passing, noting that it was due to asthma.
“In sad news, Jo’Mersa Marley, son of Stephen Marley, grandson of Bob Marley, has allegedly passed away today from an asthma attack. The WZPP family would like to send our deepest condolences to the Marley family during this difficult time,” it noted.
In a separate post, the station confirmed the incident.
“Unfortunately, it has been confirmed that Jo’Mersa Marley, son of Stephen Marley and grandson of Bob Marley, has passed away unexpectedly from an asthma attack. He was found in his vehicle earlier this morning. Known for his hit ‘Burn It Down’ the reggae artist leaves behind his wife and daughter. We send our deepest condolences to the Marley family during this difficult time,” the station stated.
Opposition leader Mark Golding also expressed regret and sent condolences tp the Marley family.
“I’ve just learned of the tragic loss of Joseph “Jo Mersa” Marley. A talented young reggae artiste, son of Stephen Marley & grandson of Bob Marley at only 31 yrs old. The loss of a child is a devastating blow no parent should face, my condolences to Stephen & the entire family,” Golding noted.
I’ve just learned of the tragic loss of Joseph “Jo Mersa” Marley. A talented young reggae artiste, son of Stephen Marley & grandson of Bob Marley at only 31 yrs old. The loss of a child is a devastating blow no parent should face, my condolences to Stephen & the entire family. pic.twitter.com/BJf1NLH6Qc
— Mark J. Golding (@MarkJGolding) December 27, 2022
The singer is survived by his wife and daughter.
Jo Mersa made his musical debut in 2014 with the track Comfortable, as well as the EP of the same name.
He had also featured on the track Light It Up, on Morgan Heritage’s Grammy-winning album Strictly Roots.