Milton “Prilly” Hamilton, original lead singer of the Third World band, died in Florida on February 17 at age 74.

His daughter, Meikah, confirmed his passing in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

She said her father was admitted to hospital in Kingston in early January. He recently left for the United States to receive treatment.

Hamilton hailed from August Town in St Andrew and was a past student of Excelsior High School.

He joined Third World shortly after the band formed in 1973. Along with co-founders Ibo Cooper on keyboards and guitarist Stephen “Cat” Coore, bassist Richard Daley, percussionist Irving “Carrot” Jarrett, and drummer Cornel Marshall, he was a core member of the band’s early line-up that performed in clubs and hotels.

Hamilton sang lead on Third World’s self-titled debut album which was released in 1976 by Island Records. That eclectic set included a cover of The Abyssinians’ Satta Massagana, Kumina, Slavery Days, and Freedom Song.

Shortly after the album’s release he left Third World and was replaced by Bunny Rugs.

Hamilton continued to record, releasing songs like the ballad Beautiful People, written by Harold Butler.

In recent years, he figured prominently in events celebrating Third World’s legacy, including its 50th anniversary celebrations. Last March, Hamilton was guest performer on former Third World drummer Willie Stewart’s Rhythms of Africa show in Miramar, Florida, which saluted Cooper, who died in October 2023.

Rugs (2014), Jarrett (2018), Marshall (2024) and guitarist Rupert Bent Jr (2025) are other Third World members who have died.

Responding to news of his passing, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport Olivia Grange said, “I extend my deepest sympathy to his family, relatives, friends, and associates, to Third World Band and the rest of the music fraternity.”

She added that Hamilton’s contribution to Jamaica’s music industry must be regarded as profound.

Said Grange noted that the band Third World has retained its place in the world of top-class bands, recalling that the band toured with Bob Marley and the Wailers and opened for Stevie Wonder and the Jackson Five on different occasions.

The minister also highlighted that not only was Prilly lead singer, but he also served as the accountant for the group.

A printer by profession, Hamilton operated MJ Stationery and Supplies for many years.

He is survived by five children, six grandchildren, brothers and sisters.

— Howard Campbell