‘He has left us a rich legacy’ – Grange mourns passing of veteran artiste Lieutenant Stitchie

Minister of Culture and Entertainment Olivia Grange has hailed veteran entertainer Lieutenant Stitchie as a respected Jamaican recording artiste, songwriter and performer whose music and ministry touched the lives of many people both in Jamaica and internationally.

Stitchie, whose real name is Cleveland Laing, died in hospital today after a long illness at the age of 60.

Grange said she deeply regretted his passing, saying his secular and gospel music caught the imagination of fans at home and abroad.

“We will recall that Stitchie worked on sound systems in Spanish Town, where he came from, before announcing himself as an upcoming star with his humorous hit song ‘Wear Yu Size’," said Grange in a statement on Monday.

“In 1987, he made history as the first Jamaican dancehall artiste to be signed to a major United States record label, Atlantic Records, and at that time released his debut album, The Governor.

“He switched from dancehall to gospel music following a near-fatal accident.

Grange said that this saw Stitchie blossoming into one of Jamaica’s most exciting and enduring gospel artistes while appreciation for his secular songs never waned.

“He released his first Christian album, Real Power, in 2000, and became a respected minister and motivational speaker. His commitment to education and social outreach was widely recognised,” she said.

“His rapid-fire delivery and vivid storytelling made him one of the most respected and influential deejays of his era,” she added.

Lieutenant Stitchie was conferred with an honorary doctorate in 2012 and was awarded by the Government with the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer in 2021 for his impact on reggae music.

“I have been in regular communication with Mrs. Sophia Laing, Cleve’s widow, since his stroke in September 2024, and my Ministry has provided support during the period of his recovery. His passing is so sad and unexpected. She said to me that she was convinced that her husband’s contribution to Jamaican music and his commitment to sharing messages of faith and inspiration will be remembered by many.

“My heartfelt condolences to Sophia, the children, his relatives, friends and associates, fans, and the music fraternity. We give thanks for Cleve’s life, his music, and his ministry. He has left us a rich legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. My Ministry will update the public on the plans for the celebration of his life.”

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