Bunny Wailer
Remembering the Reggae Icon

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Thanks to reggae music, Jamaica has been put on the global map through the hard work of many of our legendary artists. Among them, one name stands out as a true legend of the genre - Bunny Wailer.

Born Neville O'Riley Livingston on April 10, 1947, in Kingston, Jamaica, Bunny Wailer made his mark on the world of music and culture through his contributions to reggae music and his unwavering commitment to Rastafarian principles.

His journey into the world of music began in the late 1950s when he met two other young talents - Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. Together, they formed a vocal harmony group called "The Wailers" and quickly rose to prominence in the Jamaican music scene. The group's name was inspired by their own experiences of witnessing the hardships of life in the ghetto, which they likened to the wailing sirens of the police and ambulances.

In the 1960s, the reggae movement started to gain momentum both locally and internationally. Bunny Wailer, along with The Wailers, played a pivotal role in shaping the genre's distinct sound. Their music combined elements of ska and rocksteady, creating a unique flow and rhythm that captivated audiences worldwide.

The Wailers achieved international success with iconic tracks like "Simmer Down," "Stir It Up," and "Get Up, Stand Up." However, Bunny Wailer's time with the group came to an end in 1973, as he pursued a solo career and explored his musical path.

After leaving The Wailers, Bunny Wailer embarked on a solo career that showcased his immense talent as a singer, songwriter, and percussionist. He released a series of successful albums, including "Blackheart Man" (1976), "Protest" (1977), and "Roots Radics Rockers Reggae" (1983). His solo work often delved into themes of spirituality, African heritage, and social justice, reflecting his deep commitment to Rastafarian principles.

Due to the popularity of the album, Blackheart Man became one of his aliases. He was also widely known as “Jah B.”

Bunny Wailer's music wasn't just about entertainment; it was a spiritual journey and a call for societal change.

His album "Blackheart Man" is regarded as a masterpiece, showcasing his rich, soulful vocals and poignant songwriting. It remains one of the most celebrated reggae albums of all time and is often cited as a pivotal work in the genre's history.

Bunny Wailer's impact extended beyond music. He was a staunch advocate for Rastafarian culture and spirituality, playing a vital role in its global dissemination. He believed in the message of peace, love, and unity that Rastafarianism preached, and his lifestyle reflected those values.

Throughout his life, Bunny Wailer remained dedicated to advancing the Rastafari movement and encouraging others to embrace its teachings. He often emphasized the importance of self-awareness, cultural pride, and respect for nature and humanity.

Recognition and Awards

Bunny Wailer's immense talent and significant contributions to music earned him numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. Wailer received three Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album: in 1991 for Time Will Tell: A Tribute to Bob Marley, and in 1995 for Crucial! Roots Classics, and in 1997 for Hall of Fame: A Tribute to Bob Marley's 50th Anniversary. Additionally, he appeared on Toots and the Maytals' True Love album, which won the 2004 Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album.

In 2017, Bunny Wailer received Jamaica's fourth-highest honour, the Order of Merit, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to reggae music and his cultural impact.

Final Years and Passing

As the surviving Wailer, Bunny Wailer held an important place in reggae music history. However, on March 2, 2021, the world mourned the loss of this iconic musician and cultural ambassador when Bunny Wailer passed away at the age of 73. His death marked the end of an era and left a void in the reggae community that can never be filled.

Bunny Wailer's music and message continue to resonate with fans around the globe. His soulful voice, insightful lyrics, and dedication to Rastafarian principles have left an enduring impact on the world of music and culture. Through his artistry and advocacy, he touched the hearts of millions and inspired generations of musicians to come.

As we celebrate Bunny Wailer's life and legacy, let us remember him not only as a reggae icon but also as a symbol of hope, unity, and the power of music to bring about positive change. His memory will forever live on through the timeless melodies and profound messages he left behind, ensuring that his contribution to the world will never be forgotten.

Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)

If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more. 

It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica! 

Return to Jamaican Food from Bunny Wailer 
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from Bunny Wailer

References & Sources For Bunny Wailer

1. Bunny Wailer Biography, Songs, & Albums | AllMusic. (n.d.). AllMusic. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bunny-wailer-mn0000636474/biography
2. Bunny Wailer - Wikipedia. (2014, July 3). Bunny Wailer - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunny_Wailer

New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.

Back To The Top Of This Page

New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿

You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise! JAMAICA On A Budget is your passport to experiencing what I call 'The Real Jamaica' on a budget! I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now!

See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!

My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers.

Read More ...

New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!

---

P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for? 
Still need help?

Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!

Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.

---

SHOP JAMAICAN Book Local Tours

Book Your Vacation Travel TIPS and Cautions

Watch My Videos!

Featured Video!

Travelling To Jamaica? 

Read this BEFORE you go

👇🏿

Recent Articles

• 
• 
• 

1. Jamaican Dandelion | What Are The Benefits?

   Feb 21, 25 04:03 PM

   
   It might not be what you think of immediately when you think of Dandelions but, Jamaican Dandelion is a very beneficial plant for traditional medicine.

   Read More

2. 7 Famous Places in Jamaica - Landmarks & Points of Interest In Jamaica

   Feb 20, 25 05:01 PM

   
   Looking for adventure? Here are seven (7) famous places in Jamaica you'll need to add to your bucket list of landmarks & historic places of interest.

   Read More

3. The Difference Between Reggae And Dancehall Music

   Feb 20, 25 12:19 PM

   
   We know they are the main genres of music in Jamaica, but what's the difference between reggae and dancehall?

   Read More

4. Jamaica Vs Curacao: Which Is The Better Vacation Island For You

   Feb 20, 25 08:44 AM

   
   An island vacation is on most of us bucket list. Let's compare Jamaica Vs Curacao, from their beaches, to their foods to the overall cost and see which is best.

   Read More

5. Traditional Jamaican Instruments

   Feb 19, 25 03:03 PM

   
   If you have an interest in Jamaica's history and more so, our musical history, you'll appreciate these, the old-time, traditional Jamaican instruments, some of which are still in use up to this very d…

   Read More