Veteran broadcaster Barrington “Barry G” Gordon, also know as “The Boogie Man”, celebrated for his dynamic voice and infectious energy that captivated audiences across Jamaica, passed away on October 29 at the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital in Westmoreland. He was 70 years old.
His passing was confirmed by his longtime friend of 50 years, Michael Chambers, who stated that pneumonia was the cause of death.
Barry G began his illustrious broadcasting career in the late 1970s after graduating from Kingston College, joining the staff of the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC). He quickly rose to prominence with popular programmes such as The Boogie Down Show on Saturday nights, which showcased his lively style and charisma. Later, his four-hour show 2 to 6 Supermix solidified his status as Jamaica’s number one disc jockey throughout the 1980s.
“He played mainly reggae, but Barry loved and played all genres of music,” Chambers recalled, noting his versatility and passion for the craft.
Barry G’s fame transcended Jamaica’s shores through his legendary sound system clashes with British radio icon David Rodigan, beginning in 1985. These epic showdowns gained international attention, earning both men recognition in major reggae and dancehall markets across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan.
Following his departure from JBC in 1987, Barry G continued his broadcasting journey at several major stations including Radio Jamaica, Power 106, KLAS FM, and Hot 102. In later years, he experienced a career resurgence at Mello FM in Montego Bay, where he spent 11 successful years before retiring in 2021.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Jamaican media, Barrington “Barry G” Gordon was conferred with the Order of Distinction in 2010, the nation’s sixth-highest honor for service to broadcasting.