R.I.P. Conrad Crystal (1965-2026)

Born Conrad Constantine Hunter in Kingston, Crystal took his first steps in music as a teenager with the Romantic Hi-Fi Sound System, but it was not until 1986 that he scored his breakthrough with 'True Love'. We ourselves really came to know him in the early 2000s, when he teamed up with Suga Roy to form a duo.

Their excellent album 'Highest Grade' appeared on the Heartbeat Europe label in 2007, followed by 'The Kings Book' in 2014. The pair would go on to specialize in tribute albums, releasing 'Suga Roy & Conrad Crystal And The Great Reggae Icons' (2009), 'Universal Tribute To Gregory Isaacs' (2011) and 'Honoring The Kings Of Reggae' (2016). A final chapter followed in 2022 with 'Love My Foundation', an album that also featured Zareb.

On social media, Suga Roy paid tribute to his musical partner and close friend:

RIP to my partner and dear friend Conrad Crystal. Conrad was much more than a friend and musical partner to me. Throughout the years, we created countless songs together and shared an incredible journey in music. Whenever we were not in the studio recording, we would spend hours on the phone talking about music, sharing ideas, making plans, and encouraging each other. Conrad Crystal was a talented artist, a true professional, and a loyal friend. The memories we created together through music and friendship will stay with me forever. His passing is a great loss not only to me, but also to the reggae and dancehall fraternity and to all the fans who loved his music around the world. I would also like to extend my deepest condolences to Conrad Crystal's family, relatives, loved ones, and close friends during this difficult time. May God give us all strength, comfort, and peace as we mourn this tremendous loss. Rest in peace, my brother. Your music, your voice, and your legacy will live on forever!
Conrad Crystal was 61.