Peter Tosh, born October 19, 1944, was a world-renowned reggae performer and founding member of The Wailers. He founded the group along with Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer and later established himself as a renowned solo performer and Rastafari promoter. Tosh was born to extremely young parents who refused to accept responsibility for him, depriving him of the safety and affection that children typically require. In the absence of his parents, he was raised figuratively by his aunt. Tosh used music to express his thoughts and ideas. Aside from his time with The Wailers, he had a successful solo career that was cut short owing to his tragic demise. He was revered by many as seen as someone who had been sent to free the Jamaican people through music, both physically and emotionally.
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Winston Hubert McIntosh
Nickname:
Stepping Razor
Birth date:
October 19, 1944
Death date:
September 11, 1987 (age 42)
Zodiac Sign:
Libra
Height:
6' 4"
Net Worth:
$3 million
Background
Peter Tosh was born Winston Hubert McIntosh on October 19, 1944, in Grange Hill, Jamaica. His astrological sign is Libra. Tosh was born to very young parents who refused to undertake parental obligations, depriving him of the attention and affection that all children deserve. While his parents were overseas, he was shuffled among relatives and finally settled with his aunt. While living with his aunt, he was heavily affected by American radio stations and developed an early interest in singing and playing the guitar. At one point, Tosh began watching a man playing the guitar in the streets. He memorized everything his fingers did and replayed the song back to the man, to his surprise.
He traveled to Kingston at the age of 15, when he met fellow hopeful artists Bunny, Bob Marley, and Junior Braithwaite. The trio began working with Joe Higgs, their vocal instructor, to enhance their distinct musical abilities. They eventually achieved their aspirations and formed the band The Wailers in 1962. Despite their difficulties in Jamaica, the trio produced their first collaboration, “Catch A Fire.” Tosh began pursuing a solo career alongside his work with The Wailers in 1971. He became the voice for individuals who couldn’t talk or didn’t have the resources to express themselves to a global audience. To many, he was a redeemer; a saint who came to rescue the oppressed.
Tosh was legally married to Andrea Marlene Brown, however, they never had children. Tosh, however, had 10 children from previous relationships. Tosh was murdered in Jamaica by a gang of three men who demanded money from him before leaving his home.
Career timeline
Peter Tosh co-founds the band The Wailers together with Junior Braithwaite, Bob Marley, and Bunny Wailer.
C.B.S. Records announces the arrival of Tosh's first solo album, "Legalize It."
Tosh releases his second solo album, titled "Equal Rights."
Tosh releases the album "Bush Doctor" after signing a deal with Rolling Stones Records.
Tosh's final studio album, "No Nuclear War," wins a Grammy Award.
Tosh posthumously receives the “Order of Merit,” Jamaica’s third highest accolade.
Why We Love Peter Tosh
He is Grammy Winner
Peter Tosh was a talented singer. He received the Grammy award for the Best Reggae Album in 1987.
His music spoke to us
Tosh spoke for the masses. His music became the voice for individuals who lacked the ability or resources to express their views.
Tosh was extremely resourceful
Tosh was a very resourceful person. He was someone who advocated for many issues.
5 Surprising Facts
He didn’t attend Bob Marley’s funeral
Tosh didn't attend Marley's funeral because the Rastafari faith doesn't practice mourning death the way Christians do and, instead, they celebrate life.
He was named after Winston Churchill
Tosh was given the name Winston Hubert McIntosh at birth in honor of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
‘Legalize It’ was prohibited on the radio
Despite being prohibited from a radio broadcast in Jamaica, the track ‘Legalize It’ was a huge success.
Tosh was close with The Rolling Stones
Tosh was intimately identified with the band throughout his career, being the only reggae musician signed to the label.
He was an expert at English wordplay
He had a genius knack for deconstructing the English language.
Peter Tosh FAQs
What was Peter Tosh's death date?
He died on September 11, 1987.
Did Tosh attend Bob Marley’s funeral?
Tosh did not attend Bob Marley’s funeral.
Was Tosh vegetarian?
He stuck to a strict vegetarian diet.
Peter Tosh’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | October 19 | Saturday |
2025 | October 19 | Sunday |
2026 | October 19 | Monday |
2027 | October 19 | Tuesday |
2028 | October 19 | Thursday |