Merciless, also known as Leonard Bartley, a reggae and dancehall artist, died on July 19 at the age of 51. Bartley was found dead at the Harlem Resort Hotel in St. Andrew, on Walkers Avenue near Lyndhurst Road. After not hearing from him for a long time, Bartley’s friends and family went to check on him at the hotel. According to sources, his fully clothed body was found on the bed in his room. According to law enforcement, there is no indication of foul play. However, an extensive investigation is ongoing. Bartley died just 18 days after celebrating his 51st birthday. He was in business for about two decades.
How did Merciless die? Cause of death
Bartley was found dead in his room at the Kingston Hotel where he was staying. His driver said he had not heard from the artist since he returned to the hotel on Monday night. When hotel employees and the driver entered his room, they saw Bartley face down on the bed. According to some stories, he was very drunk before his death. For now, it is assumed that Bartley died of natural causes. However, his family members have not yet made an official comment on the matter and further information is likely to be released soon.
Who was ruthless?
Bartley, who was born on July 1, 1971, became famous on the Dancehall scene in 1994. He started his career in the 1990s with his debut single Len Out Mi Mercy, which was followed by the album Mr. Merciless. He became famous with other hits such as Mama Cooking, Gala Gizada, Ole Gallis, God Alone and Mavis. He then worked with Lil’ John, C-Murder, Aaron Hall, Tall Pree, Rita Marley, Yami Bolo and others to record collaborations.
During Sting 2000, he challenged Ninjaman, Beenie Man and Bounty Kill to a lyrical duel, which he ended up winning. The fight took place at the Jam world Entertainment Complex in Portmore, St. Catherine, and is still considered one of the most famous in Dancehall history. Bartley’s musical inspirations include Shabba Ranks, Dennis Brown, Super Cat, Bob Marley and others. A few years ago, Bartley mentioned releasing a new 12-track album and told The Star tabloid that he was working on a Dancehall mixtape alongside a 10-track gospel compilation album. In June 2021, he announced that he will release an album called Warhead Is Back.
“Dancehall icon with a big voice!”: Twitter users pay tribute
People flocked to Twitter to express their condolences after learning of his death:
RIP No mercy
— Snips (@snipstweets) July 20, 2022
damn rip dancehall legend merciless. one of the greatest clash deejays ever.
— (777) 777-7777 (@SEVNTHOMAS) July 19, 2022
Categories: Entertaintment
Source: HIS Education