Jamaicans and music lovers worldwide mourn the passing of Michael ‘Ibo’ Cooper, veteran musician and founding member of Third World, one of the most prolific Reggae Band ever.
Cooper passed away Thursday night, October 12, 2023, at his home in Upper St Andrew. He was 71.
In a media release, the family said Cooper died peacefully after a brief illness.
“Ibo’s contribution to music and culture was immeasurable. His children remember him as a remarkable human being with a magnanimous spirit and light,” said the family.
The Cooper family
The late musician’s wife, Joy, died last month, and his son, Arif, passed away in March 2023.
In one of his lengthiest tributes to anyone, Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, said the following.
“I am deeply saddened at the news that one of Jamaica’s most talented and prolific musicians and founder of one of Jamaica’s finest reggae bands, Michael ‘Ibo’ Cooper, has passed,” said Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
“Most Jamaicans were exposed to his prowess on the keyboards and energetic performances with the Grammy-nominated band Third World. He also played for the group Inner Circle. Ibo was a true cultural ambassador, taking reggae music and brand Jamaica to the world’s farthest corners.”
Andrew Holness
“His love, upliftment, and peace music reflected the essence of reggae music. Indeed, he was part of the era that represented the epitome of true reggae music of love, unity, and peace
Andrew Holness
The Prime Minister noted that later in life, Cooper would extend his excellence as a musician and became an educator teaching music at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.
“Our students who encountered his talent and his many fans are the better for being exposed to his immense passion for music, culture, and the arts,” said the PM.
“Ibo has left a legacy of excellence buttressed by his talent, endearing personality, and passion for his family, music, and country,” Holness noted.
“The country has lost another musical icon. ‘Ibo’ was a true Reggae Ambassador.”“On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, I extend condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Ibo Cooper. May his soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine on him,” Prime Minister Holness said.
Andrew Holness
Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, in her tribute to the late musician said the following:
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of one of Jamaica’s iconic musicians, Michael ‘Ibo’ Cooper, former member of the Inner Circle Band and founding member of the Third World Band.”
“I wish to express my condolences to his children, Arianne, Akiri, Abean, and the local and international musical fraternity. Ibo was a strong and constant voice for the music industry and an exemplary music teacher. He has shaped generations of Jamaican musicians; our industry is better for having had him. I also benefitted from his advice as an Entertainment Advisory Board (EAB) member. May his soul rest in perpetual peace.”
Olivia Grange
Jamaican Gazette 