MIAMI (CelebrityAccess) – Aston “Family Man” Barrett, the renowned bassist who played a pivotal role in the success of Bob Marley and the Wailers and collaborated with Lee “Scratch” Perry, has passed away at the age of 77.
Aston Barrett Jr., one of Barrett’s sons, shared the sad news on Instagram, revealing that his father succumbed to a prolonged medical battle. In a heartfelt post, he expressed, “This morning, the world lost not just an iconic musician and the backbone of the Wailers but a remarkable human being whose legacy is as immense as his talent. Our family asks for privacy during this challenging time, as words cannot express our profound loss.”
Hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, Barrett initially belonged to Lee “Scratch” Perry’s backing band, the Upsetters. He later transitioned to the Wailers in the early ’70s and remained integral to the lineup until Bob Marley’s untimely death in 1981.
Despite his moniker “Family Man,” Barrett’s legacy extends beyond his nickname, as he fathered 41 children. His impact on the reggae scene and the global music community is immeasurable.
Ziggy Marley, son of Bob Marley, paid tribute on social media, stating, “My teacher is gone. Aston Family Man Barrett, his feel & style have inspired me & so many others. We will continue to study his genius for generations and miss his physical presence, but his spiritual energy & teachings endure.” The loss of this musical icon leaves a void that resonates across generations.
