Jamaican bassist Clifton “Jackie” Jackson died on September 23 at age 79, the Jamaica Observer reports. Its September 27 tribute reflects on his influence across rocksteady and reggae.
With The Supersonics at Treasure Isle, Jackson helped establish the sound of records including Alton Ellis’ “Girl I’ve Got a Date.” His later work included recordings with Toots and the Maytals and Jimmy Cliff.
Fellow musicians Lloyd Parks and Leroy Sibbles paid tribute to his musicianship and character. Jackson’s recordings remain a way for listeners to hear the foundations of Jamaican popular music.