Reggae Community Pays Tribute To Beky Glacier: Remembering The Life And Legacy Of Karim Jamal Beckett

The reggae community honours the life and musical legacy of Jamaican Reggae/Dancehall artist Karim Jamal "Beky Glacier" Beckett, who passed away on Monday, 15 June 2026. Born and raised in Rockfort, Wareika Hills, Jamaica, Beky Glacier represented the spirit, creativity and resilience of Kingston's musical communities. Known for his versatility as a singer and deejay, he leaves behind a legacy built on passion, dedication and love for Jamaican music.

Coming from the inner community of Rockfort in East Kingston, Karim Jamal Beckett developed his musical talents from an early age, blending reggae, dancehall and sing-jay styles into his own unique sound. Surrounded by Jamaica's rich cultural traditions, including the influence of roots drumming and chanting inspired by the many nights that Rasta men would drum and chant sounds from Count Ossie’s Music Center, Beky Glacier transformed the experiences and realities of his community into music filled with energy, emotion and storytelling.

Born Karim Jamal Beckett, and affectionately known as "Beky Glacier" and "The Glache," he grew up with a love for football while navigating the challenges of growing up in a community shaped by both struggle and creativity. Music became a source of inspiration and unity, allowing him to express the realities of life while spreading positive vibrations through his art.

Beky Glacier later migrated to New York, where he where he spent his high school years at the school of hard knocks, Erasmus High and continued developing his craft and gained recognition through neighborhood block parties and dancehall events around the Flatbush areas of Brooklyn. His musical journey connected him with respected names across reggae, dancehall and international music, working alongside or sharing stages with artists including Shabba Ranks, Marcia Griffiths, Maxi Priest, Beres Hammond, Sanchez, Lexxus, Mykal Rose, Inner Circle, Mighty Diamonds, Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, Jo Mersa Marley & Yohan Marley. Beky has worked in and around prominent American artists as well, including Chico Debarge, Coco of the former R&B group SWV, Silk, Adina Howard, and Rah Digga. He has also worked with Dylan Dillinger of Making of the Band. 

Throughout his career, Beky Glacier collaborated with respected producers and musicians, including Jamaica’s legendary producers such as King Jammy’s, John John Productions, Dean Frasier and Dr. Paul of Mawga Youth Productions. He was closely associated with Phyah Proof Entertainment, a label he helped build with longtime associate Trevor "Stinx" De Freitas, continuing his mission to create and promote authentic Jamaican music.

Beky Glacier's creativity extended beyond recording and performing. He appeared in film and cultural projects, including appearances in a scene from the movie The Heart of Summer starring Jamaica’s notable Paul Campbell and Glacier played as the voice of Anancy in the animated series of Jamaican folklore being distributed in the Caribbean and UK. 

He also became a respected figure within the Florida reggae community, performing at events throughout the region and sharing stages with internationally recognised reggae artists while continuing to represent Jamaican culture.

Beky Glacier's journey is a reminder of reggae and dancehall music's ability to transform experiences into messages of strength, unity and hope. His voice, creativity and contribution to Jamaican music will continue to live through his recordings and the memories of everyone he inspired. Fans, artists, musicians and reggae communities worldwide are remembering Beky Glacier not only for his music, but also for his character, energy and the inspiration he gave to those around him. A beloved uncle, a father figure and a true inspiration whose joyful spirit touched many lives.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Karim Jamal "Beky Glacier" Beckett's family, friends, loved ones, fellow musicians, management and everyone whose life he touched. May they find strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time. May Jah continue to guide and protect them, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations through the everlasting spirit of reggae and dancehall music.

Jah Mission Radio honours Jamaican Reggae/Dancehall artist Karim Jamal "Beky Glacier" Beckett, celebrating his life, his music and his contribution to reggae and dancehall culture. Rest in power, brother. May Jah guide your spirit home. One love and deepest respect.