Former Third World lead singer Milton ‘Prilly’ Hamilton dies at 74

Milton “Prilly” Hamilton, the original lead singer of the legendary reggae band Third World, passed away in Florida on February 17 at the age of 74. His death was confirmed by former bandmate and drummer Willie Stewart.

Hamilton had been hospitalized in Kingston in early January before traveling to Florida for further treatment for an undisclosed illness.

A founding member of Third World alongside Stephen “Cat” Coore and Michael “Ibo” Cooper, Hamilton was instrumental in shaping the band’s early sound. Before Third World, he began his singing career with the group Hells Angels while in high school and later joined Inner Circle, where he met Cooper.

While passionate about music, Hamilton initially pursued a diploma in Medical Technology at the University of the West Indies, Mona. However, his love for performing led him to focus on a music career full-time.