It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the legendary dancehall entertainer, Gully Bop, whose real name was Robert Lee Malcolm. On Monday, we bid farewell to this iconic artist, who left an indelible mark on the music scene.
Gully Bop's journey to stardom was nothing short of remarkable. In 2014, his impromptu performances, captured and shared across social media platforms, catapulted him into viral stardom. The people of Jamaica embraced his unique talent and infectious energy, making him an instant sensation.
His chart-topping hits, including "Wuk Affa Mi" and "My God, Dem Nuh Bad Like Me," solidified his place in the dancehall hall of fame. During his breakout year, he graced the stage at the renowned Sting festival and appeared on popular platforms like Onstage TV and TVJ's Entertainment Report.
However, Gully Bop's musical journey had its share of ups and downs. In the early 1990s, he went by the stage name 'Country Man' but struggled to find his big break in the industry. He was also known for his high-profile relationships with fellow entertainers A'mari and Shauna Chin.
In 2016, he faced legal challenges, including domestic abuse and robbery charges in the United States, stemming from an incident involving A'mari, who was also his manager at the time. In 2018, he was once again in the spotlight for assault charges following an altercation with a woman.
After several years away from the limelight, Gully Bop resurfaced earlier this year, making headlines due to his declining health and urgent need for medical care. Reports indicated that he had been hospitalized in 2021 after suffering from severe pain caused by a hernia. Although he underwent surgery, he still required basic necessities like food and medication.
As his health declined further, Gully Bop found himself without a home once more. In August, social media philanthropist Donna Gowe, affectionately known as Aunty Donna, initiated a heartfelt plea for assistance. She called upon individuals to support the entertainer, who had fallen on hard times and was battling severe illness.
Gully Bop's unique talent and vibrant presence brought joy to countless fans, and his legacy will continue to live on through his music. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans as we remember and celebrate the life of this dancehall legend.
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