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Tributes after Musical Youth drummer Frederick Waite Jr dies

BBC Musical YouthBBC
Musical Youth are best known for their hit Pass the Dutchie that was performed at Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony

Tributes have been paid following the death of reggae band Musical Youth's drummer Frederick Waite Jr.

The band, known for 80s hit Pass the Dutchie that sold more than five million copies worldwide, announced the death of the 55-year-old earlier.

Mr Waite Jr was a "musical legend" who "inspired many young musicians", the Birmingham band said.

They formed in 1979 with members Dennis Seaton, Michael Grant, Kelvin Grant, Mr Waite Jr and Patrick Waite.

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In 2001, Seaton and Michael Grant reformed as a duo.

Pass the Dutchie has once again become a favourite hit, with the band performing the song at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony.

It was also featured in season four of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things.

Dennis Seaton Frederick Waite JrDennis Seaton
The band originally formed in 1979

Seaton said his legacy would be for a "brief time in history" he could be classed as the "best drummer in the world for his age".

The musician, known as Junior, "led the band with commitment and hard work," he added.

Dennis Seaton Frederick Waite and Dennis SeatonDennis Seaton
Dennis Seaton said the drummer had commitment and worked hard

Fellow reggae and Brummie band UB40, paid tribute on Twitter posting: "R.I.P JR. How sad to hear this news.

"Our thoughts go out to his family and Musical Youth".

PA Media Musical YouthPA Media
Two of the original members of Musical Youth performed at the Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony

Many fans also paid tribute, with one writing: "Very sad to hear the news of the passing of Frederick Waite Jr. His contribution and legacy to Birmingham's music culture was enshrined at the Closing Ceremony".

Another simply wrote "First record I ever bought".

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