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Perhaps a common cliché for the average man is that “bright lights burn half as long”, and in a literal sense, it may very well be true.From a metaphorical perspective, the cliché takes on added veracity when applied to many outstanding singers and musicians, especially in the early entertainment business.Although the phenomenon does not apply to all and sundry, it is quite noticeable that many such individuals live half their normal lifespan or have short lifespans. Many theories have been advanced in an effort to explain the reasons for the phenomenon. Many experts blame youthful exuberance, which results in reckless actions, leading to motor vehicle accidents, for example. Noted physician and surgeon Doctor Patrick Lodenquai advanced the theory that improper diet (fast foods), inadequate rest, and constant ‘bleaching’ could play a significant role in many an artiste’s early demise. Many performers have difficulty in finding time to eat, having to rush from one engagement to another, while constant ‘late hours’ stage shows curtail their rest period. Smoking, drug, and alcohol abuse are three of the major actions blamed for early body collapse.

Numbered among young recording artistes who died from disputes, natural causes, non-motor vehicle accidents, and perils, was Jamaica’s talented vocalist Garnett Silk. He was only 28 years old when he passed. Bob Marley survived for eight years longer, while the talented American folk rocker, Bobby Darin of Dream lover fame died at age 37. Ronnie Dyson and Roy Hamilton, two of the greatest singers that the world has ever known, survived for only 40 years a piece. Interestingly, Jamaican reggae stars Peter Tosh and Dennis Brown, along with the Rock and Roll King, Elvis Presley, all shared a lifespan of 42 years. Bobby Darin’s story is particularly interesting. Showing an interest in music from an early age, he became proficient at drums, piano, and guitar by his early teens. By the time he had his first set of hits, including Splish Splash and Queen of the Hop in the late 1950s, he was far more advanced than the typical singer of his age. Darin became so versatile that music aficionados had a problem in deciding whether to classify him as a rock and roll singer, an interpreter of popular standards, a balladeer, or a folk rocker.

A number of movie roles and an Oscar nomination complemented his accolades. — Jamaica Observer.