United States (US) based Jamaican-born producer Rayon Lee Barclay, better known in dancehall and reggae music circles as Producer Ajal, lost his battle with cancer on September 17.
Producer Ajal was reportedly ailing for some time. It is understood that he was surrounded by his family during his transition.
Dancehall artiste Frassman Brilliant, who along with Producer Ajal, started the NS Music label several years ago, remembered him as someone who looked out for his family and friends.
“Producer Ajal has been my friend for over 20 years now. He was like a big brother to me; someone who always showed up for all of his friends and family, one of the hardest-working persons I know. Whenever you are in his presence, it always feels like something major is going to happen. It’s always a vibe’s not a dull moment even when things are not going as well as it should be, he would laugh then move on to something else. A true go-getter, Mr Make it happen. He was the person on the phone that most people didn’t even know what he looked like,” said Frassman Brilliant.
Born in Clarks Town, St Catherine, Producer Ajal was raised in West Prospect, Bog Walk, before he migrated to the United States at the age of 17.
Producer Ajal, who also managed Frassman Brilliant, has produced songs including Faith by Teejay, Protection by Jahshii, Bruck It by Demarco, and Talk Truth by Lutan Fyah.
He also worked with Ikaya, I-Octane, Chronic Law, Blvk H3ro, Chuck Fenda, Pressure Busspipe, Stonebwoy, I-Wayne, Anthony B and Rytikal among several others.
His most recent project, the Predominant rhythm, was released in March. It features songs by Sizzla and Mykal Rose, Chuck Fenda and Lutan Fyah among others.
Producer Ajal was 45 years old. He is survived by three sons and a daughter.
His funeral service is scheduled to take place on October 19 in Windsor, Connecticut.
