Cleveland Laing, known to music fans as Lieutenant Stitchie, died in hospital on September 28 at age 60, the Jamaica Observer reports. His death came one day before his 61st birthday.
The Spanish Town performer broke through with Wear Yuh Size and Natty Dread before signing with Atlantic Records in 1988. He later became a Christian and moved into gospel reggae in 1997, bringing his distinctive delivery to a new chapter of his career.
Caribbean Flava extends condolences to his family, friends and listeners. This remembrance was prepared on September 30; the reported date of his passing is September 28.