Birth and Childhood:
- Peter Tosh was born Winston Hubert McIntosh on October 19, 1944, named after British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
- Childhood nickname "Peter" stuck, and he was also called "McIntouch" due to his inclination to touch and handle things.
Musical Prowess:
- Despite learning to play on a makeshift "sardine pan guitar," Tosh became an accomplished guitarist.
- A gifted multi-instrumentalist, he played melodica, recorder, piano, and organ on many recordings early in his career.
Legalize It Album:
- Tosh's landmark debut album, "Legalize It" (1976), faced radio bans in Jamaica, yet it became a smash hit.
- Released alongside Bunny Wailer's "Blackheart Man" and Bob Marley's "Rastaman Vibration," these albums are considered among the best reggae recordings ever.
Producer Lee Jaffe:
- Photographer and former touring member of Bob Marley and the Wailers, Lee Jaffe, played a significant role in producing "Legalize It."
- Jaffe also assembled Tosh's all-star backing band, Word, Sound and Power, and captured the iconic album cover photo in a Jamaican ganja field.
Opening for Bruce Springsteen:
- Tosh and Jaffe were part of The Wailers that opened for Bruce Springsteen at Max's Kansas City in 1973.
- Billboard Magazine described The Wailers as "the only unknown band capable of neatly eclipsing Springsteen's formidable charisma."
Association with the Rolling Stones:
- Tosh, the only reggae artist signed to the Rolling Stones' label (1978-1981), opened for them during their 1978 US tour.
- He featured prominently in the opening scene of the Stones' video for "Waiting On A Friend."
Residence at Keith Richards' Home:
- Keith Richards allowed Tosh to stay at his Jamaican home but faced a challenge when Tosh refused to leave upon Richards' return in 1981.
- Tosh eventually left when Richards brandished a gun and threatened him.
Language Deconstruction:
- Tosh was a genius at deconstructing the English language, famously calling New York City "New York Shitty" and criticizing the "Babylon shit-stem."
- He had colorful nicknames for individuals, such as the "Jamaican Crime Minister" and the Queen of England.
Final Jamaican Performance:
- Tosh's last public performance in Jamaica was on January 28, 1984, at the Rockers Magazine Music Awards Show, where he also received the Reggae Personality of the Year award.
Irony of Recognition:
- Despite his criticism of the "Babylon Shit-stem," Tosh received Jamaica's Order of Merit, the third-highest honor, in 2012.
Conclusion:
As we celebrate the enduring legacy of Peter Tosh, these lesser-known facets offer a glimpse into the complexities and richness of his life beyond the stage. From his humble beginnings to his global impact on reggae music, Peter Tosh remains an indelible figure in the history of music and activism.
Post a Comment