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ABC News
ABC News
National
Andrew Thorpe

Joseph 'Jo Mersa' Marley, Bob Marley's grandson, dies of reported asthma attack at age 31

Reggae musicians and Jamaican politicians are paying tribute to Joseph "Jo Mersa" Marley, grandson of reggae legend Bob Marley, after his death in the United States at age 31.

The singer's death was first reported by Jamaican broadcast journalist Abka Fitz-Henley, who tweeted that Marley had been found unresponsive in a vehicle on Tuesday morning.

Florida radio station WZPP later reported his death was the result of an asthma attack.

Marley was the son of Stephen Marley, who was also a musician and began appearing onstage with his father at the age of four.

He moved to the United States during high school and released his debut EP, Comfortable, in 2014 at 23.

He was known for his eclectic stage presence and integration of traditional reggae with modern beats and musical styles.

Marley embraced his family's legacy over the course of his career, speaking out for social justice and advocating for better health and education in his home country.

He also collaborated with his brother Yohan on their singles Burn It Down and Bricknell.

However, he spoke of his desire to represent the "new generation" of Marleys, telling Rolling Stone magazine he intended to "do something new with my roots".

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness shared a video of Marley on his Twitter account, calling the news "truly sad" and sending strength to the Marley family.

Opposition Leader Mark J Golding similarly paid tribute, calling the death "tragic".

"The loss of a child is a devastating blow no parent should face, my condolences to Stephen and the entire family," he wrote.

DJ Walshy Fire of dance music outfit Major Lazer led the tributes on Marley's final Instagram post, writing "Jah knows. His talent and intelligence was insane. Love you king. So glad I got to work with you."

Marley is survived by his wife Qiara and daughter Sunshine.

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