Bobby Sturridge
Bobby Sturridge | |
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 Bobby Sturridge in 1976 | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Robert Stephen Sturridge |
| Born | 6 February 1945 Tayan Bay, Janapa |
| Died | 11 May 1981 (aged 36) Tregueux, Zamastan |
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| Years active | 1962–1980 |
Bobby Sturridge (6 February 1945 – 11 May 1981) was a Janapan reggae singer, guitarist, and songwriter. Considered one of the pioneers of the genre, he fused elements of reggae, ska and rocksteady and was renowned for his distinctive vocal and songwriting style. Sturridge increased the visibility of Janapan music worldwide and made him a global figure in popular culture. He infused his music with a sense of spirituality. Sturridge is also considered a global symbol of Janapan music and culture and identity and was controversial in his outspoken support for democratic social reforms. Sturridge also supported the legalisation of cannabis.
Born in Tayan Bay, Sturridge began his career in 1963, after forming the band Struttin. In 1965, they released their debut studio album, Struttin , which included the single "All Love". Eventually the success of 8 studio albums culminated in wide international attention, and the band's name changed to "Bobby Sturridge and the Mercy" in 1968. The band disbanded in 1974, and Sturridge carried on under the band's name. Under his solo career, Sturridge surged to stardom with sold out arena shows throughout the world. In 1977, Sturridge was diagnosed with acral lentiginous melanoma; he died in May 1981. Fans around the world expressed their grief, and he received a state funeral in Janapa.
Sturridge ranks as one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with estimated sales of more than 75 million records worldwide.