Third World lead singer Bunny Rugs is dead

William ‘Bunny Rugs’ Clarke

(Jamaica Gleaner) – Lead singer of the iconic reggae band, Third World, William ‘Bunny Rugs’ Clarke is dead.

William ‘Bunny Rugs’ Clarke
William ‘Bunny Rugs’ Clarke

Clarke, who would have turned 66 this Thursday, February 6, passed away last night in a hospital in Orlando, Florida.

He had been diagnosed with cancer and had been battling the disease in intensive care.

It is reported that because of health problems, he missed some of the shows in Third World’s 40th anniversary tour in 2013.

Clarke, who has helped to shape the history of reggae, has spent the past 31 years with Third World.

His musical career began at age 15.

For years he was a member of the renowned Inner Circle band and the duo, Bunny and Ricky.

His death, which comes at the start of Reggae month, has sent shock waves throughout the entertainment industry, with several tributes on Facebook.