Aston “Family Man” Barrett was the bandleader and bass player for Bob Marley (1945–1981) and the Wailers and helped create the reggae sound.
- Died: February 3, 2024 (Who else died on February 3?)
- Details of death: Died after a long medical battle at the age of 77.
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Aston Barrett’s legacy
Barrett built his own first bass guitar, then began playing alongside his brother, drummer Carlton Barrett (1950–1987). The brothers joined the Wailers in 1969, and their rhythms became foundational to the band’s iconic sound. After Marley’s death in 1981, Barrett led the Wailers Band as they carried on without their founder. The Wailers Band went through several incarnations and breakups, including a period when Barrett was the only band member to have played with Marley.
In addition to his work with the Wailers, Barrett performed and recorded with such musicians as Burning Spear, Peter Tosh (1944–1987), and King Tubby (1941–1989). He was also a mentor to bassist Robbie Shakespeare (1953–2021) of Sly & Robbie. Barrett’s nickname reflected the fact that he was the father of 41 children.
Notable quote
“Music is life, you know? It’s also like a gym. It keeps you happy. It’s exercise.” —from a 2013 interview for the BBC
Tributes to Aston Barrett
Full obituary: USA Today
