The facts
Harriott died at home early on 24 October at age 87, according to the Jamaica Gleaner and Jamaica Observer. [1][2]
He worked as a singer, songwriter and producer across ska, rocksteady and reggae. [1][2]
He formed a version of the Jiving Juniors and launched the Crystal record label in 1962, the Gleaner reported. [1]
He received Jamaica's Order of Distinction in 2009 and the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. [1]
Still unconfirmed
- The reports said Harriott had been ill but did not identify a specific cause of death.
Sources
References support the numbered facts above. Source checks: 1 Nov 2026, 20:45 UTC.
No direct family statement was retrieved. The death date and career are attributed to separate Jamaican reports from The Gleaner and the Jamaica Observer.
- Reggae pioneer Derrick Harriott dies at 87
The Jamaica Gleaner · Reporting · 25 Oct 2026
Opened detailed obituary with death date, age, career and honours.
- Derrick Harriott, celebrated singer and producer, dead at 87
The Jamaica Observer · Reporting · 24 Oct 2026
Opened separate report confirming death date, age and work as singer, producer and label owner.