Reggae industry mourns Fantan Mojah’s passing
Fellow artistes, promoters, and fans continue to pay tribute to conscious reggae singer Fantan Mojah, whose music reached far beyond Jamaica’s shores.
The singer, born Owen Moncrieffe, died on Tuesday, July 14, at University Hospital of the West Indies after a period of illness.
He was 49.
Within hours of news of his death emerging, social media was flooded with touching tributes, as some of reggae’s biggest names reflected on his impact.
Singer Etana chose to remember Fantan Mojah not with words alone, but with a video capturing him commanding a packed arena.
“I posted this before and I will post it again because it’s part of how I want to remember Fantan. Greatness! Love you always!” she wrote.
Capleton was sombre in his comments: “Give thanks for the life of a true brother, a gifted musician, and a true warrior. Jah knows best. Musical contribution can never be erased and your works will continue to speak. May the Most High grant strength and comfort to your family, friends and fans.”
Dancehall superstar Shaggy echoed those sentiments in a brief but heartfelt tribute.
“We lost one of our reggae soldiers! Walk good mi bredda. RIP. Condolences to his family.”
The outpouring continued throughout the day as artistes, including Ikaya, Bugle, and Yaksta, along with promoters such as Best of the Best Festival, joined countless others in celebrating the life and music of the St Elizabeth-born singer whose catalogue consistently championed spirituality, perseverance, and social consciousness.
For more than two decades, Fantan Mojah stood as one of reggae’s most authentic voices. Emerging during the roots reggae resurgence of the early 2000s, he distinguished himself through spiritually charged lyrics and a distinctive vocal style that resonated with audiences.
Songs such as Hungry, Hail the King, Rasta Got Soul, and Stronger became staples among lovers of conscious reggae, cementing his reputation as an artiste who viewed music not simply as entertainment, but as a vehicle for truth, upliftment, and cultural preservation.
His contribution to reggae was recognised by Reggae Sumfest, where he delivered one of his final performances before a Jamaican audience in 2025. The festival has since announced plans to honour his memory during A Taste of Reggae Sumfest on July 18 at Plantation Cove in St Ann.
“Fantan Mojah was a true soldier for reggae music,” said Reggae Sumfest CEO Joe Bogdanovich. “His lyrics carried purpose, his performances were heartfelt, and his commitment to uplifting people through music never wavered… His spirit will forever be part of our stage.”
The tribute will give fans and fellow artistes an opportunity to celebrate a musician whose message remained consistent throughout his career.
In a statement issued on behalf of his management and family, Fantan Mojah was remembered first not as an entertainer, but as a loved one.
“Fantan Mojah was a beloved father, brother, artiste, and devoted Rastafarian,” it read. “His music, spirit and message will continue to live on.”
The family also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received following his passing while asking for privacy as they mourn.