Singer Joseph 'Jo Mersa' Marley, Bob Marley's Grandson, Dead at 31
The reggae singer was reportedly found unresponsive earlier today.
Joseph 'Jo Mersa' Marley, the grandson of the late reggae icon Bob Marley, has passed away at the age of 31.
Mersa was reportedly found unresponsive in a car earlier today, Dec. 27, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that he suffered an asthma attack, as the cause of death has either not been officially confirmed or made public at this time, though a rep for the musician has confirmed his passing to Rolling Stone.
Mersa has been performing professionally since 2010, when he released the single “My Girl” with his cousin, Daniel Bambaata Marley. His debut EP, Comfortable, followed in 2014, though the singer, naturally, grew up in a world of music.
He was born in Jamaica and moved to Miami at age 11, often performing with his father, Grammy-winner Stephen Marley, uncle, Ziggy Marley, and aunts Cedella and Sharon while growing up.
Jamaican politician Mark J. Golding mourned the young man's death on Twitter, writing, “I’ve just learned of the tragic loss of Joseph “Jo Mersa” Marley. A talented young reggae artiste, son of Stephen Marley & grandson of Bob Marley at only 31 yrs old. The loss of a child is a devastating blow no parent should face, my condolences to Stephen & the entire family.”
Mersa is survived by his wife, Qiara, and young daughter, Sunshine, in addition to his father and other family members.
His legendary grandfather was only 36 years old when he died of melanoma in 1981.