Information Minister Expresses Sadness at Laing’s passing

The local music, entertainment and broadcasting industries have lost one of their strongest advocates with the death Saturday (April 13) of musicologist and entertainment consultant, Mr. Anthony  ‘Tony’ Laing.

In expressing her sadness at his passing, Information Minister Sen. Sandrea Falconer said that for decades Tony Laing kept alive the discourse on Jamaican popular music, and we hail his exhaustive efforts in promoting Jamaican music and culture. His practical, down to earth personality, bolstered by a tenacious fighting style made Laing the epitome of the Jamaican spirit.

Never ashamed of sharing the struggles of his own journey, particularly with the young, Laing was a firm believer in the abilities of the Jamaican people to rise above obstacles. It is in this context that we hail his tireless efforts in fighting for the copyright act for musicians and artistes, which became a reality in 1993.

Minister Falconer expressed condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica to Mr Laing’s two daughters, the family and his many friends.

Communications Unit – OPM