Tuesday Tribute: Peter Tosh

In the early 60's, Peter Tosh met Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. The trio went on to form the Wailers and the world of reggae music was forever changed. As the Wailers achieved fame both in Jamaica and the US, Bob Marley became the face of the group, and by 1974, Tosh had gone solo. Tosh traded mainstream success for the ability to convey his militant views and political messages through his songs. A passionate advocate for the legalization of marijuana, Tosh's first and perhaps biggest hit was 1976's "Legalize It." His views on marijuana made him a common target of the police and he was beaten by Jamaican officers more than once. Tosh continued making solo records throughout the early eighties and at one point went on tour with the Rolling Stones. Tosh left the music world in 1983 to move to Africa and make spirituality a priority. While in Africa, he wrote numerous Anti-Apartheid songs and performed at a number of Anti-Apartheid concerts, once again getting his voice heard on the political and social levels. Sadly, Tosh was murdered at his Jamaica home in 1987, but not before leaving a lasting impression on world, reggae, and soul music as well as passing on numerous messages through his lyrics and his actions.

The first video this week is of Tosh, Bob Marley, and the rest of the Wailers doing "You Can't Blame The Youth." Although Bob Marley normally got the spotlight not only with the Wailers, but in the entire face of reggae music, Tosh takes his turn here both on vocals and wah-wah rhythm guitar.



The next tune doesn't have much of a video, but I think its my personal favorite Tosh song, so
I figured I'd share it anyway. "Reggaemylitis" is one of his later tunes, but it has a really solid, happy groove. Its also off of one of the most awesome album titles of all time: Wanted Dread & Alive.



Here is a cover of the Temptations' tune "Don't Look Back" that Tosh did with Mick Jagger. I could be the world's biggest fan of Mick's signature strut, but even I can tell that he looks a bit out of place in this one.



The last clip is a live take of Tosh doing his biggest hit, "Legalize It." The video also shows numerous shots of pot being smoked. The song itself has become an anthem of those involved in the movement to legalize marijuana, but there is no denying that it is a classic tune.