Jamaican reggae singer Gregory Isaacs dies at 59 (AP)

LONDON – Gregory Isaacs, the Jamaican reggae singer whose smooth style earned him the nickname “Cool Ruler,” has died at the age of 59.  The BBC reports that Isaacs died Monday at his London home. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer.

His wife Linda said Isaacs was “well-loved by everyone, his fans and his family,” and would be greatly missed.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1951, Isaacs began recording in his teens. With his sinuous baritone and romantic songs, he became a leading proponent of the mellow “Lovers Rock” style of reggae.

Isaacs was best known for the title song from his 1982 album “Night Nurse.”  His career was derailed for a spell by drug use, but he released a well-received final album, “Brand New Me,” in 2008.