KINGSTON, Jamaica — Trombonist Ronald ‘Nambo’ Robinson was given a rousing send-off here Sunday with a thanksgiving service at the Masjid Al Salaam mosque.

Robinson, 67, died January 25 of a heart attack. At the traditional Muslim service, there were more laughs than tears from his immediate and musical families.

Addressing a ‘full house’, Dr Dennis Howard described Robinson as “a gentle giant (who) impacted anyone who was fortunate to cross his path”.

Howard, who knew Robinson for over 40 years, added that “While he was an outstanding musician, Nambo was more importantly a gentleman, a friend to all, a teacher, councilor, cheerleader, moral compass, straight-shooter and supporter. He was never hypocritical and spoke his mind but never let you felt too bad when you were not at your best.”

Robinson played on countless hit songs in a 45-year career. From Bob Marley’s Buffalo Soldier to Dennis Brown’s Love’s Got A Hold On Me, to Freddie McGregor’s All In The Same Boat and That Thing by Lauryn Hill.

A tearful McGregor, who attended the service, said, “Wi go far back; from We The People and 809 days. Nambo a di greatest person, one a di most loving person, always encouraging.”

Lloyd Parks and We The People and 809 were two of the bands Robinson played. He started with Mystic Revelation Of Rastafari, then Light Of Saba, and was a regular in Sly and Robbie’s hit-laden Taxi Gang.

He was also a mentor to reggae’s next generation of acts including the EarthKry band and singer Chronixx.

“Nambo’s friends spanned every generation…He respected and honoured all the music greats before him and nurtured all the young, singers, singjays, producers, songwriter, engineers, radio deejays and instrumentalists who were fortunate to spend time with him,” Howard noted.

Ronald ‘Nambo’ Robinson is survived by his wife Marcia and three children.

Howard Campbell