Desmond Dekker

[Steve F]

I have just heard that Desmond Dekker had died at the age of 64 from a heart attack.

This guy was a genuine legend, probably the most recognisable reggae artist apart from Bob Marley.

He was still touring and always put on a great show.

Desmond will be sadly missed but I will smile everytime I hear The Israelites.

I hope some ABers share my thoughts

[littleoldme]

I mentioned this on another website yeterday, but I was lucky enough to see Desmond Dekker live a few years ago as one of the support acts to Madness at one of their Madstock events at Finsbury Park. He was excellent, and the crowd (of all different ages) loved him, singing along to "Me Ears Are Alight" , 007, You Can Get It If You Really Want etc.

Not only that, but (and I swear this is true), before he came on, it was raining. It stopped, and the sun appeared, almost simultaneously with him appearing on stage, and it continued to shine for the duration of his act. It started raining again about a minute after he finished. Pure coincidence of course, but it did seem that even the heavens were smiling on him that day. :-)

Excellent performer, certainly much better than the awful (and very stroppy) Finlay Quaye, whom we had to endure later.

[Eastender]

I met Desmond Dekker a good few moons back. Great records to cheer you up. A good artist and sadly missed.

[luckyboy]

I was also at that finsbury park show, and can concur that dekker gave a spellbinding performance. he was a excellent live performer with loads of charisma.