Music manager Linda Smith Isaacs has died
Published:Friday | June 23, 2023 | 1:02 AM
A former reggae music manager, Linda Smith Isaacs, who once managed reggae singer, Gregory Isaacs died at home in the United Kingdom last Wednesday, her business partner confirmed. She was 74 years old.
“Linda passed away on June 21 at midday,” Kirstin Uhl told The Gleaner on Thursday.
Smith Isaacs had reportedly been diagnosed with lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
“Linda was my best friend. I am going to miss her. She was involved in reggae music for years and worked with other artistes, not just Gregory. But she was his manager and went on tour with him sometimes,” Uhl said.
“Linda was in hospital for three weeks and then she was sent home. I was hoping that she would recover, but it never happened. As soon as I know when the funeral is, I am going to England,” Uhlo, who is based in Germany stated.
Smith Isaacs, a mother of three, had been married to a Jamaican man, however, she changed her name to Isaacs by deed poll. It was at her house in Middlesex that Gregory Isaacs died, after which his remains were returned home to Jamaica for burial.
Following the passing of the reggae star in October, 2010, the media in the UK referred to Linda as Isaacs’ “wife” and this caused much confusion around the late singer. Linda herself became somewhat of a controversial figure within the music industry and was cast as either a villain or a saint.
Several people criticised comments Linda made after Isaacs’ death about her being “proud” that the star, who was dubbed ‘The Cool Ruler,’ had chosen to spend his final days with her at her home in the UK, as opposed to his birthplace, Jamaica.
Gregory Isaacs was legally married to June Isaacs at the time of his death.
Each year, June Isaacs stages the successful Red Rose For Gregory concert, part proceeds of which are donated to charity. The last staging was on Mother’s Day, May 14 at Hope Gardens and featured headliners Deniece Williams and the Manhattans.
Gregory Isaacs, who died of cancer in October, aged 59, was one of the most popular reggae singers of all time. A regular on the Jamaican hit parade during the 1970s and ‘80s, Isaacs brought reggae into far-flung territories through widespread international tours.
The Gregory Isaacs Foundation has been established in his honour by his widow.