By Elysia Bryan

The Cool Ruler of reggae music, Gregory Isaacs passed away on October 25, 2010 from lung cancer. Frequently referred to as the most versatile vocalist in popular reggae, Isaacs can be heard on more than 500 albums and compilations. He was infamous for being skittish around the media and rarely giving interviews. Despite the various controversies surrounding his career, Isaacs managed to build a successful life as a family man in London and finally put his troubles to rest before his passing. He walked the line between lover, wild man and incomparable songwriter. Below, we remember some of the highs and lows of one of reggae’s brightest stars.

15 July 1951 – 25 October 2010

1968: Paired with musician Winston Sinclair, the duet “Another Heartache” was recorded.

1973: Founded African Museum record label with Errol Dunkley.

1973-1976:  Releases an abundance of material, more than most artists do in a career.  His work during this period is widely acclaimed as classic.

1974: Began working with producer Alvin Ranglin and achieved his first number one single in Jamaica with ‘Love is Overdue”.

1977: Issacs produces more hits with Ranglin, including “Number One” and “Border”, which he releases through Ranglin’s GG’s label.

1978: Isaacs is featured in the iconic film Rockers. Displaying some of the best in 70′s reggae, this film is a must-see for any fan.

1978:  Signs to Virgin’s Front Line record label.  Despite delivering the career defining Cool Ruler and its stellar follow up Soon Forward, Isaacs inexplicably fails to attain international stardom that many thought he was due for.

1982: Releases the album Night Nurse. The title track is undeniably his biggest hit to date. Ironically, as the single rapidly grew popular around the world, Isaacs was confined to jail following a drug arrest in Jamaica.  Check out his live performance of Night Nurse at Reggae Sunsplash, 1983.

1985: Recorded another successful album with Private Beach Party. His single “Rumors” built upon his earlier success.

1995: Though African Museum continued to release Isaacs work throughout the 90’s, 1995’s Dreaming album was one of his most acclaimed releases in years.

2005: Younger reggae fans were introduced to Isaacs music when dancehall queen Lady Saw covered “Night Nurse”.

2008: The final album on his African Museum label, Brand New Me, marked Isaac’s return to the music scene.

2010: Performed in front of 60,000 fans at the Big Chill Summer Festival alongside M.I.A.