DANCEHALL WORLD MOURNS DEATH OF MERCILESS

July 20, 2022

Reggae and Dancehall artist Merciless, also known as Leonard Bartley, passed away on July 19 at the age of 51. Bartley was discovered dead at his Harlem Resort hotel room on Walkers Avenue in St. Andrew.

After not hearing from the dj for several days, friends and family went to check on him at the hotel. Sources revealed that his fully-clothed body was found on the floor in his room and proved there were no signs of foul play. Born on July 1, 1971, Bartley became a star of the Dancehall scene in 1994. He started his career during the 90s with his first song, “Len out mi mercy” followed by an album, “Mr. Merciless”. Other noted hits are “Mavis”, “Mama cooking”, “Gal Gizzada”, “The letter” and “Let dem have it”. Bartley who was also called “Warhead”, gained the highest accolades in his career when he single handedly dethroned Ninja Man, Beenie Man and Bounty Killer in the legendary clash at the 2000 Sting showdown. The outcome left the music world in a state of shock to see an artist from “country”- Clarendon, created history by defeating the top three dancehall lyricists at Sting. Over the years, the dj has been in several spats with arch rival Bounty Killer. He sadly lost his wife in 2015 and was in a state of depression since. Though regarded as one of the most lyrical entertainer in the dancehall culture, he wasn’t given the respect he deserved. Mr. Bartley left behind 2 children, friends and family members to mourn. Several dj colleagues paid their respect with tributes via social media. The 2022 Reggae Sumfest did a special 30 seconds of silence at the 2022 World clash. Merciless will be missed by many, may he rest in peace.