Alphonsus Cassell, the Soca musician known as “Arrow,” has died at the age of 60 , two days after he returned from medical treatment in Antigua.
Justin Cassell, the singer’s brother and a fellow musician with whom he often collaborated, said Arrow passed away due to complications stemming from brain cancer. The singer, who is best known for his 1980s hit “Hot Hot Hot,” died at his home in Montserrat after having battled the condition since early 2009. “Hot Hot Hot” is still the world’s best selling Soca track of all time, and was the official song of the FIFA World Cup in Mexico in 1986.
Jamaica Gleaner notes that despite being a breakout Soca artist recognized by the US mainstream, Cassell never strayed far from Montserrat:
While most soca artistes were ignored by major American labels, Arrow was signed to Chrysalis and the Island Records subsidiary, Mango, during the 1980s and early 1990s. He recorded three albums for Mango including the eclectic Knock Dem Dead.
For all his fame, Arrow never left Montserrat, his homeland, even when it was in danger of being destroyed by the Soufriére Volcano. He operated a men’s clothing boutique there and was involved in several charities.
Cassell’s brother Justin also said that funeral service arrangements are pending.
