Gospel community mourns as Kukudoo passes away at 61

The gospel fraternity is in mourning following the death of veteran gospel singer David “Kukudoo” McDermott, who passed away at the age of 61.

Minister of Culture and Entertainment Olivia Grange has remembered Kukudoo as a gifted revival singer and a true cultural son of Jamaica.

Meanwhile, fellow gospel entertainer Kevin Downswell described Kukudoo as a brother and friend who will be truly missed.

According to a statement shared by his family on social media, Kukudoo died on the morning of Friday, May 8, 2026.

“It is with a heavy heart that we the family of David Kukudoo McDermott have to tell the public that he passed this morning,” the statement read.

The family also asked for grace and privacy as they grieve and requested that calls to his cellphone be limited during this difficult time.