Derrick Harriott, celebrated singer and producer, dead at 87

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Derrick Harriott, the reggae and rocksteady singer and producer known for hits including The Loser, has died. The iconic Jamaican singer began his career as part of a duo in his teens alongside Claude Sang, gaining recognition after winning the Vere Johns Opportunity Hour talent contest as early as 1957. Harriott would become part of a group, the Jiving Juniors, before going solo in the 1960s and releasing hits including What Can I Do and I’m Only Human. He was also a talented producer, presiding over successful albums for several other artistes including DJ Scotty and Dennis Brown. Harriott, whose discography encompassed sounds of ska, rocksteady and reggae, was awarded the Order of Distinction in 2009 for his contribution to the development of music locally. Harriott was 87 at the time of his passing