PRODUCER STEELY DEAD

Steely of the dynamic reggae music duo producers’ Steely and Clevie has died.

Steely died this morning shortly after 10 from a heart attack at a New York hospital. The veteran producer who has been ailing for sometime has been in and out of hospital.

Music News understands that Steely’s brain was damaged and his kidneys failed.

Wycliffe Steely Johnson first surfaced with sugar youth promotion organization playing keyboards on Minott’s classic Getto-Ology in 1978. After a period with the generation gap he joined the roots radices earning a reputation for hard work and innovation.

At some point in the late 70’s steely and Clevie met during sessions for Agustus Pablo at Lee Perry’s black ark studio, working on Hugh Mundell’s Africa must be free by 1983.

The pair’s relationship was enhanced by contrasting characters Clevie the studios mild musician and Steely the louder Ragga character. 

And condolences are pouring into Music News for the late icon who many say will be missed from the entertainment industry. 

His close friend and music partner for many years Clevie has expressed sadness while remembering steely. (CLIP)

Clevie adds that steely was in good spirits the last time he spoke with him just a few days before he passed.  

And veteran entertainer Coco Tea describes steely as one of the greatest musicians from the soil of Jamaica.  (CLIP)

Meanwhile other members of the entertainment fraternity are lost for words as they have not yet come to terms with the passing of Steely.

In an email to Music News, Bounty Killer, on behalf of all the Alliance, sends condolences to the family and friends of Wycliffe "Steely" Johnson, he states that Steely's works have shaped the modern sound of digital dancehall and his contribution to Jamaican music is immeasurable.

Bounty Killa says His energy and effervescent character will be missed at studio sessions and on corners across Kingston and around the world.

Steely and Clevie worked with everyone cutting 10 singles a week at its peak in 1987 and a stream of albums from various artists such as Coco Tea Dennis Brown, Admiral Bailey and Lieutenant Stitchie.