Reggae Pioneer Desmond Dekker Dies

Reggae pioneer Desmond Dekker, 64, died suddenly from a heart attack May 26th.

Dekker’s 1969 “Israelites,” a hit in the U.S. and Britain, was the first international success to come from Jamaica’s vibrant music scene.

He is credited with introducing the world to ska music, which is a precursor to reggae.

His popular hits, including “Rude Boy Train,” “Rudie Got Soul” and “007 (Shanty Town),” made him a hero among British youth.

He moved to England from Jamaica in the 1970s.

His career suffered in 1971 after his mentor Kong died, and he was declared bankrupt in 1984.

He toured regularly and was scheduled for European summer dates.