JAMAICA | PNP Expresses Condolences on the passing of Donald “Tabby Diamond” Shaw

KINGSTON, Jamaica, March 30, 2022 -  The People’s National Party has expressed regret at the passing of Donald “Tabby Diamond” Shaw, who died on Tuesday March 29, 2022, in a gruesome act of violence and expressed sincere condolences to his family and friends. 

A statement from the PNP today said "Donald “Tabby” Shaw was a brilliant singer and songwriter. Together with Fitzroy "Bunny" Simpson and Lloyd "Judge" Ferguson, he formed part of the inimitable three part group, Mighty Diamonds. Tabby Diamond as he was popularly called, was the lead singer of the group. Over the years, Tabby Diamond became known for his effortless style of singing and his humility."

The PNP statement said "Despite the many accolades and awards achieved by the Might Diamonds, Tabby Diamond never forgot his humble beginnings and carried that spirit of humility with him for the many decades which he has contributed to the music industry.  In 2021 the Mighty Diamonds received the Order of Distinction for their contribution and longevity in the reggae industry."

“He was a very fine vocalist, with a sweet tenor voice. I loved to watch the Mighty Diamonds live, with their seminal hits from the 1970s. For Tabby Diamonds to lose his life in this way is a tragic reflection of where Jamaica is today”, said Mark Golding, Leader of the Opposition.

"The entire nation is saddened by the tragic passing of the legendary Tabby Diamond. The recent surge of violence in Jamaica is deeply concerning. We must create a safe environment for our citizens. We ask anyone with information about the individual(s) responsible for Tabby Diamond’s murder to report it to the police so that those responsible can be brought to Justice," the PNP statement concludes.

Tabby Diamond, was killed on Tuesday night in a drive by shooting on McKinley Crescent, St. Andrew. The St. Andrew South Police confirmed that Tabby Diamond (real name Donald Shaw) and Owen Beckford were killed when a gunman opened fire on a group of people outside a shot around 9:42 p.m.

Two men and a woman were also wounded in the shooting.

Fitzroy 'Bunny' Simpson and Lloyd 'Judge' Ferguson are the remaining members of The Mighty Diamonds, the musical trio, formed in 1969.

The Mighty Diamonds is known for hits such as Have Mercy, Pass the Kutchie, and I Need a Roof.

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