Gregory Isaacs, Reggae Singer, Dies at Home in London

LONDON (CBS/AP)  Gregory Isaacs, the Jamaican reggae singer nicknamed "Cool Ruler ,known for his designer clothes and outsized lifestyle that included cocaine addiction, died Oct. 25, 2010 , at his London home. He was 59.

The BBC reports that Isaacs had been diagnosed with lung cancer.

His wife Linda said Isaacs was ``well-loved by everyone, his fans and his family,'' and would be greatly missed.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1951, Isaacs began recording in his teens. With his sinuous baritone and romantic songs, he became a leading proponent of the mellow "Lovers Rock" style of reggae.

Isaacs was best known for the title song from his 1982 album "Night Nurse."

His career was derailed for a spell by drug use, which led to numerous run-ins with authorities and spells in jails. He appeared to have t he addiction under control in recent years, telling London's Daily Telegraph in 2007 that "Drugs are a debasing weapon" that he has put on the side.

He released a well-received final album, "Brand New Me," in 2008 and had been performing through the summer.