Reggae artist Fantan Mojah dies after battle with health issues

Reggae artist Fantan Mojah has died at the age of 49, just weeks before his 50th birthday.

According to reports, the singer died on Tuesday evening at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston after suffering complications related to a heart condition. A close associate told local media that his health had deteriorated rapidly in the days leading up to his death and that he was hospitalized after falling ill.

Booking agent Vertex said Fantan Mojah had recently returned from the United States and initially appeared to be in good health before his condition worsened. He also claimed the singer experienced severe symptoms shortly before his death.

Fantan Mojah, whose real name was Owen Moncrieffe, had faced serious health challenges in recent years. In 2024, he was hospitalized in Martinique with breathing difficulties and chest tightness, with reports at the time stating that his heart was functioning at around 15 percent capacity. By early 2025, however, he had recovered enough to resume touring in Europe and had reportedly been preparing to perform at this year's Reggae Jam Festival in Germany.

Known for spiritually driven reggae music rooted in Rastafarian teachings, Fantan Mojah rose to prominence with his 2005 album Hail the King. He later released fan-favorite tracks including Stronger, Nuh Build Great Men, and Rasta Got Soul, earning a devoted following for his socially conscious lyrics and powerful vocal delivery.

Further details surrounding his death have not yet been released.