The reggae music community mourns the loss of Kenneth Roxborough, founding member of the influential roots-reggae ensemble Wadada, who passed away in Chicago on January 5th at age 78. His wife of 18 years, Mirta Roxborough, confirmed to the Jamaica Observer that his death resulted from complications related to multiple health conditions.
Mirta remembered her late husband as the quintessential dedicated musician, emphasizing that ‘He never stopped playing his guitar; he loved music,’ despite facing significant health challenges throughout his later years.
This passing marks the second devastating blow to the original Wadada lineup within 17 months, following the death of fellow co-founder Franklin Thompson in August 2024 at 72 years of age.
Roxborough’s musical legacy traces back to 1978 in Kingston’s Trench Town, where he formed Wadada alongside Denzil Williams on lead vocals and Franklin Thompson. The group quickly distinguished themselves with harmonious vocals that drew favorable comparisons to legendary Jamaican groups like The Wailers and The Wailing Souls.
Their artistic journey included a landmark performance at Reggae Sunsplash in 1979 and the recording of their definitive album ‘Take A Stand.’ Wadada also collaborated with iconic producers Bunny Wailer and Freddie McGregor, creating recordings that would become part of reggae’s golden era.
Born in Westmoreland, Jamaica, Roxborough’s career continued evolving after relocating to the United States. His creative output included socially conscious solo works such as ‘Discrimination,’ maintaining his artistic relevance across decades.
Roxborough’s personal life reflected his international connections—he met Cuban-born Mirta in Miami in 2005 shortly after returning from Ethiopia, where Wadada had participated in the historic Africa Unite concert organized by the Marley family.
He is survived by his wife Mirta, two sons, seven grandchildren, and multiple siblings. His passing represents the closing of a significant chapter in Jamaican music history, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence contemporary reggae artistry.