IRIE FM and the local media fraternity are in mourning following news of the passing of veteran broadcaster and one of the founding members of IRIE FM, Walter Charles Clarke OD.

Known professionally as Bob Clarke, the renowned broadcaster passed away this morning at hospital.

Music News spoke with media consultant Clyde Mckenzie who shared how Bob’s persistence resulted in the birth of IRIE FM.

Bob was also an entertainer and was a part of the Karl Young owned Rockers International Band.

Entertainer Richie Stephens in paying tribute, recalls meeting Bob in the mid 1980s and getting his stamp of approval.

Meantime, broadcaster, publicist and media consultant, Judith Bodley, says Bob Clarke’s vision helped carry Jamaican music and culture to the world.

During a 2018 interview on the Africa Forum: Running African, with host Kabu Ma’at Kheru alongside, Shane Clarke, Clyde McKenzie and Big A, Bob shared how the character Zekiel from the popular IRIE FM jingles was created.

Bob also said,

Bob Clarke helped shape the sound of IRIE FM and touched generations of listeners through his programme Memories. 

In 2018 he was awarded the order of distinction by the government for his contribution to the development of jamaican media and entertainment.

Bob was 75 years old.