Dancehall stalwart U-Roy, who was christened Ewart Beckford, has died. He was 78 years old.

It is understood that U-Roy died Wednesday evening in the hospital after undergoing a kidney operation.

U-Roy is credited with being one of the pioneers of dancehall music, starting his career as far back as 1961, during which he brought the genre to the forefront of Jamaican music.

He produced many notable dancehall gems including Wake The Town, Wear You To The Ball (featuring John Holt), Creation Rebel, Chalice In The Palace and Dread In A Babylon.

He also operated Stur Gav sound system, which helped to hone the skills of dancehall superstars Super Cat, Josey Wales, Charlie Chaplain and Early B.