Reggae Legend Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett Passes

 

Sources: Live For Live Music ; Reggaeville.com

By Andrew O’Brien

Steel Pulse announces their old drummer Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett, has died in a statement on Facebook.

“It is with a heavy heart that we must pass the sad news that today, our brother, our friend, our time keeper for so many years, original founding member of Steel Pulse, Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett has passed away suddenly and unexpected,”
– the band wrote.

Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett, may he rest in peace.

“It is with a heavy heart that we must pass the sad news that today, our brother, our friend, our time keeper for so many years, original founding member of Steel Pulse, Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett has passed away suddenly and unexpected.

As we the Steel Pulse family far and wide have lost someone so close to us, we will still take the stage in a few hours on the Jam Cruise, knowing that the joy that Grizz had bringing the Steel Pulse music and message to our beloved fans around the world, will continue on today, and his spirit, love, and love for you all will ring out across the seas, touching your heart and ours.

Bless Grizzly, Rest In Power!”

Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett was born on the Caribbean island of Nevis, but left his homeland at the age of nine to join his parents in migrating to Birmingham, England. Grizzly joined Steel Pulse in 1977 before they put out their 1978 debut album Handsworth Revolution. The record spawned their biggest U.K. hit, Prodigal Son.  In 1987, Steel Pulse’s record Babylon the Bandit won them the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album. Steve “Grizzly” Nisbett was the main drummer until 1998 when he gave up the honours to Conrad Kelly, but continued to play percussion. He retired from the band in 2001 due to health concerns.
The late percussionist also owned his own U.K. music label, Grizzly Records.