Derrick Harriott Dies at Home in St Andrew After Illness

Opposition spokesperson Nekeisha Burchell paid tribute to veteran Jamaican singer, producer and entrepreneur Derrick Harriott, calling him a pioneer who helped shape the country’s music industry and national identity. She said his Crystal label nurtured artists like Dennis Brown and that his legacy will continue to influence future generations.

Reggae and rocksteady singer-producer Derrick Harriott has died at 87 in Jamaica. Known for hits such as “The Loser,” “What Can I Do” and “I’m Only Human,” he helped shape local music as a performer, producer and member of the Jiving Juniors, earning Jamaica’s Order of Distinction in 2009.

Pioneering Jamaican singer and producer Derrick Harriott has died at home at 86 after a recent illness, according to the Derrick Harriott Music Store in St Andrew. A key figure from ska through reggae, he co-founded The Jiving Juniors, launched the Crystal label and helped shape early reggae and dub, earning national honours for his work.