Gospel Dancehall star Lieutenant Stitchie has suffered a severe brain hemorrhage and is currently in a coma at a long-term care facility. The 58-year-old artist, whose real name is Cleve Laing, is unresponsive.
His wife, Sophia Laing, has launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Support Stitchie’s Rehabilitation Journey.” The campaign, which started on September 2, seeks funds to cover his transfer, medical care, and living expenses. It has raised $930 of its $100,000 goal.
“We are reaching out to you during this incredibly challenging time. Our beloved Cleve “Lt. Stitchie” Laing, a husband, father, and friend, has recently suffered a severe brain haemorrhage that has left him unresponsive,” the page announced.
“We urgently need you to join us to provide the help needed in a long-term care facility, where he can receive rehabilitation care. Your donation will make a difference by bringing hope to Lt. Stitchie and his family during this difficult time. Your generosity and prayers mean the world to us.”
“We are very grateful for your support to help cover the costs of his transfer, medical care, and living expenses in the long-term care home. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference and bring hope to Cleve and his family during this difficult journey,” the post said.
The post continued: “Please consider contributing to this campaign and sharing it with others who may also be able to help. Your generosity and prayers mean the world to us, and we are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
Lieutenant Stitchie had been facing some health challenges after collapsing on stage last year. He has had an illustrious Dancehall career. In 1987, he recorded his first album, ‘Wear Yuh Size’, for King Jammys, which the producer also named ‘Great Ambition’ for the overseas market.
He was also signed to Atlantic Records, where he recorded three albums, namely ‘The Governor’ in 1989, ‘Wild Jamaican Romances’ in 1991 and ‘Rude Boy’ in 1993, all of which copped the Album of The Year award in Jamaica. At the time, he was also featured on LL Cool J’s 1993 Gold Album 14 Shots to the Dome on a track titled ‘Straight from Queens’.
In 1993, after his stint at Atlantic ended, Stitchie recorded ‘Bun It Down’ for producer Patrick Roberts of Shocking Vibes. The single topped the local music charts and was later followed by a slew of number-one songs. In one calendar year, Stitchie even ended up with 14 number one songs.
Although Stitchie’s discography is extensive, his most memorable track is the hit ‘Wear Yuh Size’, about a fictional love interest who forced her feet into a tiny pair of shoes and embarrassed herself in public. ‘Romance’, ‘Natty Dread’, ‘Hot Like the Sun’, ‘Broad Hips’, and ‘Woman Fe Get Lyrics’ are among his other big hits.
In his secular years, he worked with many of Jamaica’s best producers, including Bobby Digital, Danny Browne, Donovan Germaine, riddim twins Sly and Robbie, and Steelie and Cleevie.
His first album in the gospel reggae style, ‘To God Be the Glory’, was released in 1999. He followed with further albums in a similar style.
In 2002, he won the ‘Outstanding Male Reggae Vocal Performance of the Year’ award at the Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Awards.
In 2012, Stitchie was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Cornerstone Christian University in Orlando, Florida, in recognition of his contribution to Gospel Reggae.
He published his autobiography, ‘The Power of Determination’ in 2014 and was subsequently inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame in January 2016, in Kingston.
In 2021, he was honored with the Order of Distinction during the National Honours and Awards Ceremony.
