Reggae Icon Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett Passes Away at 77

Reggae music has lost one of its iconic figures with the passing of Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett at the age of 77. The news was shared by his son Aston Barrett Jr on social media, expressing the heaviness in their hearts over the loss of their beloved musician and a remarkable human being.

Aston Barrett, widely known as the rhythmic genius behind reggae legends including Bob Marley and the Wailers, Burning Spear, and Augustus Pablo, was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica. Together with his brother Carlton, who was the drummer, he formed the backbone of the Wailers during Bob Marley’s tenure as the leader of the band.

Barrett’s bass work defined the sound of Marley and the Wailers, anchoring their legendary songs such as ‘I Shot the Sheriff’, ‘Get Up, Stand Up’, ‘Stir It Up’, ‘Jamming’, and ‘No Woman No Cry’, among countless others. His basslines became the heartbeat of the reggae genre, captivating international audiences and introducing them to the spirit of Jamaica.

Beyond his contributions to reggae, Aston Barrett also played with other influential artists and bands like Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry’s Upsetters, The Aggrovators, King Tubby, Peter Tosh, Max Romeo, Keith Hudson, and I-Roy, leaving his mark on their acclaimed reggae albums.

Aston Barrett’s legacy extended beyond his musical prowess. He was nicknamed ‘Family Man’ for his role as the musical director of the Wailers and his patriarchal presence within the music scene. A respected figure among his bassist peers, he mentored renowned bassist Robbie Shakespeare before Shakespeare formed his own duo, Sly & Robbie.

While Aston Barrett did not achieve the financial recognition he desired, he received accolades from the music industry, including a lifetime achievement award from Bass Player magazine and the Order of Distinction from Jamaica.

Tributes poured in from the reggae community and beyond following the news of Barrett’s passing. Bob Marley’s official social media account acknowledged his genius on bass and described him as a pioneer, a trendsetter, and a true family man.

Ziggy Marley, son of Bob Marley, expressed his personal connection to Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett, stating that his feeling and style inspired not only him but also many others. He emphasized that Barrett’s influence and teachings will endure for generations.

Aston Barrett’s music touched the hearts of millions, and his influence on reggae and related genres is invaluable. His basslines laid the foundation for the Wailers’ music and were the heartbeat of a genre that resonated worldwide.