Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

Byron Lee - Winston Sill

Update:
After this report was prepared, Byron Lee subsequently died in hospital after a long battle with cancer. For more details see: Byron Lee dies in hospital

Soca legend Byron Lee is still alive, despite rumours that have been circulating since last week that the pioneering bandleader is dead.

When The STAR made calls to Lee's cellphone yesterday, a message that appeared to have been left by his daughter, Julian Lee Samuels, stated: "Hi, this is Byron Lee's cellphone. It is November the 3rd. He's currently at the University Hospital undergoing treatment. He's doing well. Thank you for your concern, care and support."

The message further stated that persons could leave a message for Lee as he received them daily.

Fighting transitional cell cancer

Lee, 73, has been fighting transitional cell cancer and was being treated in Miami, Florida. He was later diagnosed with bladder cancer two years ago and returned to Jamaica by air ambulance on Saturday, October 25. Lee has remained at the University Hospital of the West Indies in the Tony Thwaites Wing since.

The bandleader, known for hits such as Tiny Winey, was recently conferred with the Order of Jamaica during a special ceremony at the hospital. He was presented with the award by Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall and Prime Minister Bruce Golding. The Order of Jamaica is the nation's fourth-highest honour. Lee was awarded the Order of Distinction in 1982, which was upgraded to Commander class in 2007.

Leading musicians

Lee's career spans over 50 years and he is credited with being one of the leading musicians to bring Jamaican music to the world. According to yahoomusic.com, when Bob Marley was a struggling young musician and a member of the little-known Wailers, Lee was perhaps the most well-known Jamaican bandleader in the world. Lee was 20 years old when he formed his band, Byron Lee and The Dragonaires, in 1956. Has since travelled the world and helped popularise the carnival tradition in Jamaica through the annual Jamaica Carnival.

Update:
After this report was prepared, Byron Lee subsequently died in hospital after a long battle with cancer. For more details see: Byron Lee dies in hospital