It is with great sadness that VP Records must announce the passing of Joel Chin at the age of 35. Joel was shot last night (Tuesday, August 16) outside his home in Stony Hill, St. Andrew in Jamaica. The cause is not immediately known.
As the grandson of VP Records founder Vincent Chin, son of famed reggae producer Clive Chin and nephew of VP Records owners Chris and Randy Chin, Joel literally grew up in the reggae business and put his vast knowledge and connections at the service of the music, which he loved passionately.
Joining the company in the 90s, Joel was instrumental in launching and fostering the careers of international reggae stars such as Sean Paul, T.O.K., Beres Hammond, Wayne Wonder, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Morgan Heritage, Tarrus Riley and Etana while creating the top reggae compilations in the world: “Reggae Gold” and “Strictly The Best.” Joel was loved by the creative community in Jamaica and around the world, and has a long standing relationship with some of the top producers on the island such as Dean Fraser and Steven “Lenky” Marsden. Joel’s signings helped VP Records become the largest reggae label in the world and brought reggae into the mainstream music market — culminating with Sean Paul’s “Dutty Rock” album which sold over 7 million units worldwide.
An accomplished producer, Joel had moved from New York to Jamaica two years ago to spend more time on music production, songwriting and developing rising talents. Joel wrote hit songs for many artists such as Elephant Man and Etana among many others.
Joel is survived by his mother Juliette, his father Clive, his newborn daughter, two brothers and three sisters.
