Lowell Fillmore Dunbar first emerged in the Jamaican music scene at fifteen as a member of the Yardbrooms. As a prolific drummer, record producer, and songwriter, he became a foundational architect of reggae’s global reach. His career spanned seven decades, ultimately establishing him as a primary creative force behind hundreds of recordings across multiple genres and international labels.
Early influences and professional ascent
Born in Kingston on 10 May 1952, Dunbar developed his technique by studying established Jamaican percussionists including Lloyd Knibb of the Skatalites, and Winston Bennett. He also drew inspiration from American rhythm sections, specifically the work of Al Jackson Jr. His initial session appearance occurred on the Dave and Ansell Collins release Double Barrel, followed by a tenure with the ensemble Skin, Flesh and Bones.
The Sly and Robbie partnership
In 1972, Dunbar formed a professional association with bassist Robbie Shakespeare after meeting him while Shakespeare played for the Hippy Boys. The duo became essential studio musicians, working extensively with Peter Tosh until 1981. They gained recognition for a distinct rhythmic approach, highlighted by tracks like the Mighty Diamonds' Right Time. The pair later founded Taxi Records in 1980 to distribute work by artists including Black Uhuru, Ini Kamoze, and Chaka Demus and Pliers.
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Dunbar’s percussion work appeared on recordings by artists outside the reggae genre, such as Bob Dylan, Grace Jones, Herbie Hancock, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones. His session contributions included Junior Murvin's Police and Thieves and Bob Marley's 12-inch version of Punky Reggae Party. Brian Eno once remarked that Dunbar’s studio presence was so ubiquitous that he seemed permanently stationed at a Jamaican recording console.
Accolades and final years
Over his career, Dunbar received thirteen Grammy nominations. He won the award for Best Reggae Recording in 1985 for the Black Uhuru album Anthem and received a second Grammy in 1999 for the Sly and Robbie album Friends. Dunbar remained active in the music industry until his later years, collaborating with Larry McDonald on the 2008 project Drumquestra and appearing in the 2011 BBC documentary Reggae Got Soul. He died from cancer in his hometown of Kingston on 26 January 2026.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 May 1952, Kingston, Jamaica
- Died: 26 January 2026, Kingston, Jamaica
- Primary instrument: Drums
- Notable labels founded: Taxi Records
- Grammy wins: 2
- Grammy nominations: 13
- Early band: Yardbrooms
- Primary collaborator: Robbie Shakespeare
Questions readers ask
How many Grammys did Sly Dunbar win?
He won two Grammy awards: one in 1985 for the Black Uhuru album Anthem and one in 1999 for the Sly and Robbie album Friends.
What was the name of the record label founded by Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare?
They founded Taxi Records in 1980.
Did Sly Dunbar play on music outside of the reggae genre?
Yes, he performed on sessions for international artists including Bob Dylan, Grace Jones, Herbie Hancock, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones.
Achievements
- Instruments: drum kit
- Genres: reggae and jazz
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