FOUNDING MEMBER OF THIRD WORLD PASSED

October 14, 2023

The reggae world is deeply saddened by the passing of music icon Michael “Ibo” Cooper, a founding member of the iconic reggae band “Third World”. He made significant contributions to the music industry and left a lasting impact on Jamaican music. It’s also tragic to learn about the recent loss of his wife and son earlier this year. Cooper was born in Clarendon, Jamaica on January 14, 1952 and passed October 12, 2023. He was a member of the influential reggae band, Inner Circle, before forming Third World. The later was originally formed in 1973 by Cooper, a keyboardist, and guitarist/cellist Steven “Cat” Coore. Legendary singer William “Bunny Rugs” Clarke followed Cooper’s footsteps by leaving Inner Circle to join Third World in 1976. After a short stint, Cooper left the band in 1997.

Ibo Cooper’s musical journey, from his time with Inner Circle to his role in forming Third World, is a testament to his influence on the reggae genre. He served as head of the Caribbean, Latin American and jazz department, now called Popular Music Studies at Edna Manley College. His contributions as a musician, composer and educator at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts have helped shape the careers of many Jamaican musicians, making him an important figure in the country’s music scene. He was also chairman of the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA). In 2005, he alongside his former band member Cat Coore received the Order of Distinction (OD), in the rank of Officer, for their contribution to the development of Jamaican music.

It’s clear that Michael ‘Ibo’ Cooper’s legacy will live on through the music he helped create and the musicians he mentored. May his soul rest in perpetual peace, as his music continue to inspire future generations on a global level. He will be greatly missed by all, especially his children Arianne, Akiri and Abean.