The Reggae Industry has lost an icon, Peter ‘Peetah” Morgan, of the Morgan Heritage group is no longer with us. Morgan heritage songs were songs to teach and spread unity, Just like Bob Marley.
Peter “Peetah” Morgan, the lead singer of the family band, Morgan Heritage has passed away. His unique, voice was one of the group’s profound characteristic, Peetah’s soulful vocals—often paired with the harmonious complements of his brother Roy “Gramps” Morgan—painted a distinct musical imprint over the band’s 30-year in the music industry.
In remembrance of Peetah’s time spent with with Morgan Heritage, Jamaica Weekly is highlighting 5 songs from the band’s rich catalog you should listen. These tracks highlights the groups ability to tackle social issues and their versatility along with commitment to a wide spread of love and positivity through music.
Don’t Haffi Dread (1999)
Don’t Haffi Dread, the title track from their 1999 album, is the quintessential “Rasta 101” anthem. The song tackled the necessity of dreadlocks for spiritual identification in the Rastafarian community, and stands out for its nuanced and convincing approach, moving beyond simplistic statements often found in similar Reggae songs. With Gramps and Una Morgan, the sole female member at the time, on backing vocals, it gently reminds listeners that the essence of Rastafari lies beyond outward appearances
Liberation (Chant Woee) (1999)
Liberation is a message to encourage more conscious artists to asssist in ‘liberateing’ the people through music. Peetah took the lead along with Memmalatel Morgan, the group’s rapper, rapping a verse. The track highlights legends like Peter Tosh, Bob Marley, Jacob Miller, Sizzla, Garnet Silk & Capleton, praising them them for using music as a tool for social development.
What We Need Is Love (2000)
What We Need Is Love, voiced on the Grab Yu Lass Riddim, which samples the You Don’t Care Riddim produced in 1967. The Peetah led song with Memmalatel Morgan aka Mr. Mojo contributing his part, raping in the third verse, delivered another fulfilling message of unity and love, informing listeners to practice these values for themselves and the future generations.
Down By The River (2000)
This is a title track on Dean Fraser‘s riddim, which recycled The Cables’ classic, What Kind Of World recorded in 1970. Down By The River delivers a spiritual theme, with Peetah and Gramps’ painting a picture of a journey toward spiritual awakening inspired by the flow of a river and the nature.
She’s Still Loving Me (2002)
She’s Still Loving Me vividly shows Morgan Heritage’s ability to fuse styles music, inviting a country influence to be a part of their unique Reggae sound. The song doesn’t venture social or politics, its message instead, sheds light on commitment and dedication in relationships.
