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Who was Merciless?
Merciless, also known as Leonard Bartley, was a Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist who rose to fame in the 1990s with his hit songs such as Len Out Mi Mercy, Mavis, Mama Cooking, and Gal Dem Gizzada. He was known for his lyrical prowess and his ability to clash with other artists on stage. He had a memorable performance at Sting 2000, where he challenged and defeated Ninjaman, Beenie Man, and Bounty Killa in a legendary battle. He also collaborated with international artists such as Lil’ John, C-Murder, Aaron Hall, Rita Marley, and Yami Bolo. He cited Shabba Ranks, Dennis Brown, Super Cat, Bob Marley, and others as his musical influences.
How did Merciless die?
Merciless was found dead on July 19, 2022 at the age of 51. He was staying at the Harlem Resort hotel on Walkers Avenue near Lyndhurst Road in Kingston, where he usually lodged while in the city. His driver and hotel staff discovered his body on the bed in his room after they had not heard from him for a long time. He was reportedly fully clothed and lying face down. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The cause of his death is still unknown, as the autopsy report was deemed inconclusive by the authorities. There were no signs of foul play or violence on his body. Some sources claimed that he was heavily drunk before his death, while others speculated that he might have suffered from a heart attack or a stroke.
What did his friends and family say?
Merciless’s friends and family were shocked and saddened by his sudden demise. They paid tribute to him on social media and expressed their condolences. His former manager and producer, Harvel ‘Gadaffie’ Hart, who had worked with him for almost two decades, said that Merciless died of a broken heart. He said that Merciless was frustrated by the lack of recognition and appreciation from the music industry and the fans. He said that Merciless always asked him what else he had to do to make the people embrace him. He said that Merciless turned to drinking to cope with his depression.
Gadaffie also said that he was planning to release a new album with Merciless, as well as a dancehall mixtape and a gospel compilation. He said that Merciless had a lot of unreleased songs that he wanted to share with the world. He said that Merciless was a talented and versatile artist who could sing any genre of music.
Gadaffie said that he wanted to give Merciless the best send-off possible and that he was arranging for his body to lie in state somewhere in Kingston before his burial in Clarendon, his hometown. He said that he wanted Merciless’s colleagues and fans to come and pay their respects to him. He said that Merciless deserved to be honored and celebrated for his contribution to reggae and dancehall music.
What is the legacy of Merciless?
Merciless will be remembered as one of the most influential and charismatic artists in reggae and dancehall history. He had a unique voice and style that set him apart from his peers. He had a loyal fan base that admired his skills and courage. He had a competitive spirit that made him challenge any artist who dared to face him on stage. He had a passion for music that made him create songs that touched people’s hearts.
Merciless left behind a rich catalog of songs that will continue to inspire and entertain generations of listeners. He also left behind three sons who inherited his musical talent and who will carry on his legacy.
Merciless was a legend who lived up to his name. He was merciless in his artistry, but merciful in his humanity. He was a star who shone bright in the dark sky. He was a hero who fought hard until the end.
He was Merciless.
