Update: Alton Ellis has passed away. More information is available here.

Contrary to rumors of his demise, Alton Ellis is still alive. However, he has been hospitalized in London and is being treated for cancer of the lymph glands.

The Jamaica Star has confirmed that Alton Ellis, AKA Mr Soul of Jamaica, was diagnosed with cancer several months ago. He's was hospitalizedafter collapsing at a show at London’s 100 Club in August and remains there under treatment. He is not doing well.

Ellis appeared to be on the road to recovery after receiving cancer treatment at end of last year, but his spring tour schedule soon showed that he had been greatly weakened by the effects of the chemotherapy.

"We can't say we are hoping for the best in this situation. The family is looking for the worst," Clive, one of Alton Ellis's sons told The Jamaica Star. "He is gasping for air. He is not talking, he is not moving, I don't think he is going to come out on top of this fight."

Alton Ellis, the king of rock steady, was born in Kingston, Jamaica. After a short career as an award-winning dancer, he debuted as one half of vocal duo Alton and Eddy. Their first recording, Muriel, was a major hit in Jamaican recording history. Ellis went on to form Alton and The Flames, producing such hits as Dance Crashers, Girl I've got a Date, Rock Steady, and Black Mans Pride. From there, Alton Ellis went solo and joined the Studio One label in 1967. His solo hits include I'm Still in Love, Breaking Up, and I'm Just a Guy.

Since that time, Anton Ellis has lived in Toronto and settled down in London, England. Alton Ellis's reggae music has garnered awards from The Jamaican cultural Development Commission, British Music Industry, Black Echoes, The Voice, Reggae Hall of Fame, and Los Angeles' KGFJ radio station.

You can leave wishes for Alton's health on his Myspace page.