The Bunny Wailer Estate has triumphantly emerged from a three-year litigation battle, securing a Supreme Court ruling in Jamaica that allows them to proceed with the administration of the late Hon. Neville O’riley Livingston O.M.’s estate. According to a release, the ruling, made on June 28, 2024, officially recognizes Bunny Wailer’s 13 children as the sole beneficiaries of the estate.
Ziggy Marley shared news of the pivotal moment on his Instagram story which marks the beginning of a new era for the estate. Bunny Wailer’s eldest son, Abijah Asadenaki Livingston, also known as “Naki Wailer,” will be taking the helm as the authorized representative. Naki, an entertainer and producer expressed gratitude, stating, “We give thanks to the Most High JAH, as we remain focused on the estate’s restoration, reproduction of our father’s vast catalogue, and the revamping of our father’s record label; Solomonic Productions Limited established 1981.”
Since his death, several persons have been laying claim to the estate including his brother Carl Livingston who issued a statement in 2021 saying he was the executor of the estate. Carl died in March last year.
All 13 children were ordered to do a DNA test to be party to the will which was a request by Bunny Wailer.
A release on July 16, 2024 stated that, Solomonic Productions Ltd., founded by Bunny Wailer, has a rich history of producing reggae legends such as Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, and Reggae Queens Marcia Griffiths, Patra, Queen Ifrica, and Ruffian. The label is also renowned for the international dance hit “Electric Boogie,” which inspired the “Electric Slide” dance craze.
Solomonic Productions Ltd. has also announced a new collaboration with Amazon. The lyrics of “Electric Boogie” will be displayed on Amazon delivery trucks, promoting the company’s initiative to reduce its carbon footprint.
As the estate moves forward, they plan to develop content, products, and experiences that align with Bunny Wailer’s brand.
This includes the annual Rootsman Skankin’ event, which celebrates Bunny Wailer’s birthday, life, and legacy. The event has featured iconic acts like Tony Rebel, Chronixx, Queen Ifrica, Popcaan, and many more.
“We are just giving thanks and representing the original Don Dada to the best of our ability, as our best is what his prestigious brand deserves,” Naki stated. He also mentioned ongoing collaborations with the estates of Peter Tosh and Bob Marley. Notably, Naki played his father in a deleted scene from Paramount’s “One Love – Bob Marley” biopic.
Solomonic Productions Ltd. is thrilled to announce its first musical release in nearly a decade. “ROCK AND GROOVE Remastered,” set to release on September 23, 2024, will feature hits like “Cool Runnings,” “Ballroom Floor,” and “Rootsman Skanking.” The album will be available on all streaming platforms and as a limited edition vinyl. This release date coincides with the incorporation of Solomonic Productions Ltd. in 1981 and the birthday of Bunny Wailer’s wife, Jean Watt, who has been missing since May 23, 2020.
Naki Wailer concluded, “We, the family, remain focused on the preservation and promotion of our father’s iconic legacy while continuing the never-ending search for our beloved stepmother, Sis Jean Watt; it’s what Don Dada would want.”
