The Jamaican music fraternity is in mourning following the passing of renowned saxophonist Anthony “Tony” Greene, whose soulful playing became an integral part of reggae music for more than four decades. Greene died on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the age of 69, leaving behind an extraordinary musical legacy that touched audiences across Jamaica and around the world.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, in March 1957, Greene’s remarkable musical journey began at the legendary Alpha Boys School, the institution that produced some of Jamaica’s greatest horn players, including Skatalites icons Don Drummond, Tommy McCook and Roland Alphonso. It was there that his love for music first blossomed.
Although he initially trained as a clarinet player, Greene’s life changed course after joining the Jamaican Military Band, where he switched to the saxophone. His exceptional talent soon earned him a place at London’s prestigious Royal Academy of Music, where he studied between 1975 and 1977, further refining the artistry that would define his career.
Returning to Jamaica in the late 1970s, Greene quickly became one of the island’s most respected session musicians. His unmistakable saxophone graced recordings with the legendary Roots Radics while he also performed with Sonny Bradshaw’s Band before joining Lloyd Parks’ acclaimed, We the People Band. During this period, his career closely paralleled that of fellow saxophonist Dean Fraser, with both musicians becoming highly sought-after figures in Jamaica’s recording industry.
By the mid-1980s, however, Greene carved out his own distinct path. While many musicians embraced reggae’s emerging digital era, Greene expanded his horizons by performing alongside internationally acclaimed R&B and soul legends including Gladys Knight, Lou Rawls and Aretha Franklin during their appearances in Jamaica. Those performances opened the door to an extensive international touring career, earning him recognition as one of Jamaica’s finest saxophonists on the global stage.
In the 1990s, Greene returned to his reggae roots with the release of his instrumental album Sax Man. Although instrumental reggae albums traditionally attracted a smaller audience than vocal recordings, the project showcased his exceptional musicianship and earned him a loyal following, particularly throughout North America. His smooth fusion of reggae rhythms and jazz influences became his signature style, even as some traditional reggae purists viewed his sound as leaning heavily toward contemporary jazz.
Greene continued to innovate throughout his career. One of his later projects featured vocals from Tanya Stephens while incorporating samples from dancehall heavyweights Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and Capleton, demonstrating his willingness to bridge generations and musical styles. Beyond performing, he also established the Sax Man label, providing opportunities for emerging Jamaican artists and helping to nurture the next generation of talent.
More than an accomplished musician, Tony Greene was admired for his professionalism, humility and dedication to his craft. Whether in the recording studio, on stage or mentoring younger performers, he earned the respect of fellow musicians both at home and abroad.
His passing marks the end of an era for Jamaican music. While his saxophone may now be silent, the melodies he created will continue to echo through countless reggae recordings and live performances that bear his unmistakable touch.
Anthony “Tony” Greene’s contribution to Jamaican music extends far beyond the notes he played. He helped elevate the role of the saxophone in reggae, inspired countless musicians and carried Jamaica’s musical excellence onto the international stage.
He is survived by his family, friends, colleagues and generations of musicians who were inspired by his artistry.
Anthony “Tony” Greene
March 1957 – June 26, 2026
Rest in peace, Sax Man.