KINGSTON, Jamaica : Fantan Mojah Dies at 49 — Reggae singer Fantan Mojah has died at the age of 49, just weeks before his 50th birthday.
The entertainer, whose real name was Owen Moncrieffe, reportedly passed away on Tuesday evening at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) in Kingston after suffering complications related to a heart condition.
His health reportedly deteriorated rapidly in the days leading up to his death after returning from the United States. He had been admitted to hospital after becoming ill and reportedly died following further complications.
Fantan Mojah had been preparing to perform at this year’s Reggae Jam Festival in Germany, with his Schengen visa recently approved ahead of the scheduled appearance.
The reggae artiste had battled serious health challenges in recent years. In July 2024, he was hospitalised in Martinique after experiencing breathing difficulties and chest tightness. At the time, reports indicated that his heart was functioning at approximately 15 per cent capacity.
Despite those setbacks, he appeared to recover significantly by early 2025 and resumed touring in Europe.
Born in St Elizabeth, Fantan Mojah rose from humble beginnings to become one of reggae’s most respected conscious artistes. Before launching his music career, he worked as a window washer and later as a handyman for the Kilamanjaro sound system while pursuing his ambitions in the music industry.
He made his recording debut in 1997 with When I Rise, produced by Tristan Palmer, before gaining widespread recognition with the 2005 album Hail the King.
During his career with DownSound Records, he recorded the hit Nuh Build Great Men. After leaving the label, he released some of his most enduring songs, including Stronger and Rasta Got Soul, which became one of his signature recordings celebrating Rastafarian faith and African heritage.
Fantan Mojah earned an international following through music rooted in Rastafarian teachings, social consciousness and cultural pride.
He is reportedly survived by at least five children.
