Peter Tosh

Jamaican reggae musician and pioneer

Peter Tosh was a prominent Jamaican reggae musician, known for his work as a member of the Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Born Winston Hubert McIntosh on October 19, 1944, in Westmoreland, Jamaica, Tosh was a self-taught guitarist and keyboardist who played an integral role in the development and popularization of reggae music. After leaving the Wailers in 1973, he embarked on a successful solo career. His debut album, "Legalize It," released in 1976, is celebrated for its title track which became an anthem for marijuana legalization advocates. Tosh was also known for his outspoken political views and advocacy for equal rights, which were often reflected in his music. Throughout his career, he continued to release albums that combined militant social messages with the rhythmic grooves of reggae. Tragically, Peter Tosh's life and career were cut short when he was murdered during a home invasion in 1987. His legacy lives on through his contributions to music and his influence on the genre of reggae.