Renowned singer-bassist Ricky Aimey dies at 70

Ricky Aimey, a highly respected and influential figure in Barbadian entertainment since the heyday of spouge music, died on Monday at the age of 70.

Details about his death were not immediately available.

Tributes have flowed in from a stunned entertainment community for a “genius performer with a stunning voice” who made major contributions as a bassist, singer, and musical director over his decades-long career.

“We remember Ricky Aimey most for his Curtis Mayfield-styled falsetto, which he thrilled us with in each performance of Earth Wind and Fire‘s Reasons,” said CEO of the National Cultural Foundation Carol Roberts-Reifer. She highlighted Aimey’s early work with spouge music and bands like Blue Rhythm Combo known as BRC.

The outpouring of tributes highlighted Aimey as not just a musical virtuoso, but a generous person who touched many with warmth and mentorship. His influence spanning genres including spouge, R&B, jazz, and pop cemented his status.

“Ricky was effortlessly charming, a warm personality, sincere and gracious, always ready with a kind word and even readier with a witty remark,” remembered Roberts-Reifer in her tribute.

Long-time associate, vocalist Kareen Clarke, who toured with Aimey, said: “His passion for music was unmatched. He played each note on his bass guitar with such intensity that you could feel it in your bones…. His performances were always filled with energy and emotion.”

In reflecting on Aimey’s prodigious gifts, longtime associate Clarke added: “He treated his instrument as if it were the star of the show…. Hearing of his passing today has left me deeply saddened.”

Another longtime friend and musician John Roett expressed shock: “We spoke just yesterday…. I simply cannot believe this is real.”

Entertainer Jamal Slocombe, who considered Aimey a mentor, said his journey into live music performance began with Aimey behind him as musical director.

“It was alongside my late cousin, Lord Radio, that I first met Uncle Ricky, along with the late Carlyn Leacock. He possessed a strong personality yet harboured a kind soul, coupled with a sharp mind and unparalleled musical talent,” he said. “Our conversations, often initiated with a random call, would extend far beyond the intended duration, a testament to the depth of admiration I had for him and the time he was willing to offer me.

“Uncle Ricky’s wisdom, talent, and sheer determination leave an indelible mark on all fortunate enough to have known him,” Slocombe added.

In addition to his renowned live performances, Aimey released solo recordings and was the musical director for poet Aja. He is remembered for original songs like Welcome the Morning Sun, Bajan Bounce, and Moon Dance.

Born in King Street, The City, in the shadow of the Wesley Hall Primary School, Aimey began singing in concerts at age five and picked up the guitar at 10 years old. By 15, he landed his first professional gig as a bassist. In the 1970s and 80s, Aimey rose to prominence, performing with numerous bands including Lunar Seven, BRC, The Draytons Two, The Troubadours, Artwork, Nightlife, and the Plantation Band.

Celebrated for his warm personality and exemplary talents, Aimey opened for major acts like Patti LaBelle, Peabo Bryson, Brian McKnight, and performed with Tito Puente at the Barbados Jazz Festival.

While forging his reputation on the local scene, Aimey’s talents took him far beyond Barbados over his prolific career. He toured extensively throughout the Caribbean as well as North America and Europe, where his stirring live performances and exceptional musicianship earned him opportunities to share the stage with major international acts.

(SD)