Nine things to know about Peter Tosh on his 79th birthday
1. Legendary Reggae Pioneer: October 19 would have marked Peter Tosh’s 79th birthday. Born as Winston Hubert McIntosh in Westmoreland, he left an indelible mark on the world of reggae, celebrated for his significant contributions to the genre.
2. Original Wailer: As a founding member of the Wailers, alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer, Peter Tosh played a pivotal role in shaping the reggae sound and spreading its powerful message across the globe.
3. Advocate for Justice: Beyond being a musician, Tosh was a passionate advocate for social and political justice. He fearlessly used his music to voice protest against injustice, apartheid, and oppression, making him one of the earliest songwriters to do so.
4. “Equal Rights” Anthem: His 1977 album, “Equal Rights,” remains a timeless classic in the annals of reggae history. The title track, with its resonating message of equal rights and justice for all, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
5. Legalisation of Marijuana: Tosh was a vocal proponent of marijuana legalisation. His music and public persona were powerful tools in advancing the cause of decriminalising the plant, long before it became a mainstream issue.
6. Innovative Guitarist: Renowned for his distinctive guitar-playing style, Tosh’s use of the M16-shaped guitar became an iconic symbol of his defiance and commitment to fighting oppression. He was a self-taught guitarist and keyboardist who honed his musical skills in Trench Town in the early 1960s.
7. International Recognition: Peter Tosh’s unwavering dedication to the struggle against apartheid in South Africa earned him “The Order of the Companions of Oliver Reginald Tambo,” a prestigious national honour bestowed by the South African government. This honour is now on display at the Peter Tosh Museum.
8. Legacy Lives On: His children, including Niambe McIntosh, continue to work tirelessly in preserving and promoting their father’s legacy through the Peter Tosh Foundation and the Peter Tosh Museum in Kingston, Jamaica which recently reopened to the public Monday-Friday 9:30am-6:00pm and Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm
9. Enduring Influence: Despite his passing in 1987, Peter Tosh’s music remains a powerful source of inspiration across various musical genres. He has seven studio albums, with songs, such as “Legalize It,” “Get Up, Stand Up,” and “Maga Dog,” continue to be anthems for those championing change and justice. “No Nuclear War,” his final album, melding reggae, roots, and dancehall elements, received the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 1988, cementing his enduring influence in the music world.