Jo Mersa Marley, Bob Marley's grandson, has passed away at the age of 31. The Jamaican-American reggae artist was found unresponsive in a vehicle on Tuesday, with the news quickly making headlines as fans of Jo and his family now mourn the loss. Per sources including streaming service TIDAL, Jo was found in a vehicle while in the U.S. on Tuesday. No location was provided in the initial death announcement. Jo Mersa is said to have suffered from the respiratory condition, asthma, throughout his life - one Florida radio station reported that the condition was the cause of Jo's death.
Jo Mersa Marley, Grandson Of Bob Marley, Dead At 31
Flickr | Perry B McLeod
Tragic Death Aged Only 31
Flickr | Perry B McLeod
Jo is grandson to legendary reggae star Bob Marley and also son to Stephen Marley. "Could You Be Loved" singer Bob died from cancer aged just 36 back in 1981.
Initial reports of the passing have now been confirmed by Rolling Stone, this via Jo's rep. However, the cause of death has still not been revealed.
“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," Mark J. Golding, a Jamaican politician, the Opposition Leader wrote on social media.
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Grew Up In Jamaica
Jo was born on March 12, 1991 and in Jamaica. The artist spent much of his youth in Jamaica, attending Saints Peter and Paul Preparatory School. He then moved to Florida, studying at Palmetto High School. He studied studio engineering at Miami Dade College before making it in music - in 2014, he released his Comfortable album, then dropping his Eternal one last year.
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Comfortable With Others
Collab-wise, Jo was clearly comfortable making beats with others. He has joined forces with Farruko, Jesse Royal, Alborosie, Jemere Morgan, Barbara Fialho, and Morgan Heritage.
In October of this year, he posted an outdoor Instagram photo with two others, writing: "On the set of #blessing video with my bro’s @yomarley___ and @kabakapyramid Video out @ midnight #Blessings @maffio @maestromarley @julianrmarley am myself @jomersamarley." Jo was followed by over 100,000 on the social media platform.
Instagram Tributes
No announcement has yet been made on Jo's Instagram, although the "rest in peace" comments now topping his latest post more than show that fans are aware of the heartbreaking news.
