Entertainment Minister Olivia Grange hails legacy of reggae singer Ernie Smith

Minister of Culture and Entertainment Olivia Grange has paid tribute to iconic reggae singer-songwriter Ernie Smith, saying his voice will resound in hearts and memories forever.

Smith, 80, passed away yesterday after being hospitalised in Florida in the United States.

Grange said his death has left her in a state of deep sadness.

“Ernie was my friend for years, and I even assisted him at one point with his career.

Christened Glenroy Anthony Michael Angelo Smith, Ernie became legendary for hits in the late 1960s and 1970s, including ‘Duppy Gunman’ and ‘Life is Just for Living’.

“We know that he had thoughts of being a radio announcer, but music got hold of him, and the legacy he leaves confirms that he made the right choice between the radio studio and the recording studio,” she said.

She noted that Smith’s booming voice and cleverly crafted lyrics were favourites at home and abroad.

“My deepest sympathy to his wife, Claudette Bailey-Smith, and the rest of his family, relatives, friends and associates, and to the music fraternity. Ernie Smith has surely earned his place among the best proponents of Jamaican music.

“We will always love you.”

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