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WE REMEMBER REGGAE STAR ALTON ELLIS: Jamaica's Rocksteady king dies of cancer at 70.

(October 13, 2008)

*Jamaican reggae star Alton Ellis, known as the "Godfather of Rocksteady," died of cancer over the weekend in London, a hospital spokeswoman told the AFP Saturday. He was 70.

The singer-songwriter was diagnosed with multiple myeloma last year. He endured a round of chemotherapy and resumed his career before he collapsed during his final performance in central London in August. He passed away peacefully at Hammersmith Hospital, the spokeswoman said.

Ellis moved to Britain in the 1970s and went on to record a string of hits spanning more than 40 years, including "I'm Still In Love," "Dance Crasher" and "I'm Just A Guy."

The rocksteady style of reggae comes from a dance that was mentioned in the 60s Ellis song "Rock Steady." A successor to Jamaican ska, the rhythm is slower and more relaxed.

Jamaican reggae singer Delroy Williams, a friend and colleague of Ellis' since the 1960s, described his voice as "the sweetest in the reggae world."

"He was very humble," Williams said. "His music is the reason for a lot of babies -- that's how sweet and warm and loving it is. It's just a shame that he didn't get the big world hit that he deserved."

Ellis, who lived in the northwest London suburb of Northolt, is survived by his wife and more than 20 children. He was awarded the Order of Distinction medal by Jamaica in 1994. Jamaican authorities were considering the possibility of giving Ellis a state funeral.

Alton Ellis "Rock Steady"