The Jamaican music industry is still in shock following the news that VP Records producer & director of artists & repertoire (A & R), Joel Chin was shot & killed in front of his residence on Tuesday night. Chin was approached by gunmen as he exited his vehicle in front of his Stony Hill, St Andrew home & was then shot several times by the men. Residents who heard the loud explosions called the police & Chin was later taken to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. He was just 35 years old & is survived by his mother Juliette, his father Clive, his newborn daughter, two brothers, and three sisters.
Soon after the news broke that Chin was murdered, members of the musical fraternity expressed their sadness & shock regarding Chin’s murder. VP Records artiste, Sean Paul tweeted following the confirmation of the news, “As another bright light fades, we give thanks for life and reminisce. R.I.P Joel Chin.” Veteran Dancehall/Reggae artiste, Spragga Benz intimated, “Deepest condolence to the family and staff of VP Records. The reggae music industry has suffered a great loss. S.W.A Joel. Sleep With Angels.” Meanwhile, Masterone Recording Artiste, Denno recorded a tribute song dedicated to Chin entitled, “Gone Too Soon.” The single was released on Thursday. You can download the tribute song at: http://www.mediafire.com/?gxqc8a5gfnous3d
Chin is the grandson of VP Records founder, Vincent Chin and nephew of the New York based label’s owners, Chris and Randy Chin. Following in his family’s footsteps, Joel became heavily involved within the Jamaican music industry in the 1990s; helping to launch the careers of many Dancehall/Reggae heavyweights such as T.O.K, Wayne Wonder, Sean Paul, Sizzla, Etana & several others. Additionally, Chin was a focal point in the production of the perennial Reggae Gold album series by VP Records; a compilation of the year’s biggest, chart-topping Dancehall/Reggae singles. Chin is also known for working on Sean Paul’s debut album, Dutty Rock that was released in 2003. The album later sold 7 million copies worldwide.
Meanwhile, police are investigating the murder case while funeral arrangements for Chin will be announced at a later date.
