"Police & Thieves" Reggae Hero Junior Murvin Reportedly Dies

Published Dec 02, 2013

Although details are scarce, reports have emerged that Jamaican reggae vet Junior Murvin has died. The cause of death is unconfirmed, but Go-Jamaica reports that he was suffering from advanced diabetes. Murvin apparently passed away peacefully at home in Port Antonio, Jamaica, early this morning (December 2).Born Murvin Junior Smith, the singer grew up in Port Antonio. Although his exact birthdate in unconfirmed, it is believed that he was born in 1949. That would make him around 63 or 64 years old.Murvin was best known for his 1976 reggae classic "Police & Thieves." The song was produced by Lee "Scratch" Perry and appeared on Murvin's 1977 album of the same name. Also in 1977, the track was famously recorded by the Clash and appeared on their self-titled album.Murvin was known for his soaring falsetto, and he continued to record over the years and scored some minor hits, but never quite achieved the same success as "Police & Thieves."In a 2011 interview with United Reggae , he said, "Tell my fans I wish the best for them and love them and I will always sing until my eyes are closed."