Gully Bop: A Celebrated Dancehall Toaster’s Journey from Obscurity to Stardom.
The dancehall world mourns the loss of Gully Bop, a ‘Rags to Riches’ dancehall toaster. Jackie Hunte, his manager, confirmed the saddening news to The Media that the artist, originally named Robert Lee Malcolm, passed away at Kingston Public Hospital.
Based in England, Hunte had been at the helm of Gully Bop‘s management since 2017. Speaking of the artist, she mentioned, “I am in shock. Gully Bop is like my brother… a genuine soul. His recent health struggles were known to many, and his daughter and producer were by his side during his hospitalization. His passing on Monday night has left me heartbroken.”
Throughout the years, Gully Bop had been candid about his health issues, including complications from hernia, blocked tubes, and a kidney ailment. In a media interview in August, he revealed undergoing surgery at Kingston Public Hospital in 2021. Despite receiving a kidney transplant, his health continued to decline, leading him to use colostomy bags.
Pastor Christopher Tate of El’Shaddai Prophetic Ministries stood by Gully Bop during his latter years. Reflecting on the deejay’s life, he stated, “Gully Bop had a heart of gold, always sharing with others. His generosity was such that he often had little left for himself. In his final moments, he turned to faith, and I hope he found salvation.”
The artist’s fragile health came under the spotlight three months ago when he approached philanthropist Donna Gowe for assistance. Donna urged those who had benefited from the artist’s talent to support him financially in his time of need.
Shauna Controlla, a close associate of Gully Bop, took to IG Live, urging fans to pray for the dancehall star. She reminded everyone of his iconic story, highlighting his journey ‘from the gully to the money’. A’Mari DJ Mona Lisa, another associate, was too overwhelmed to comment on the tragic news.
Gully Bop, born on May 30, 1964, initially graced the music scene as Country Man. His breakthrough came in 2014 when a video of him freestyling went viral. This led to the release of his debut EP, “Rags to Riches” in 2015, followed by “Rumours” in 2019, solidifying his place in the dancehall industry.
This tribute to Gully Bop is a testament to his talent, journey, and the indelible mark he left on the dancehall scene. His legacy will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come.
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