The reggae world is reeling from the sudden and tragic loss of Peetah Morgan, a towering figure in the music industry. Buju Banton, in a poignant tribute, reflects on the profound impact Peetah had on him personally and professionally, sharing memories of their journey together.
“Over twenty-five years ago, I was introduced to a new group on the horizon,” recalls Buju Banton, tinged with nostalgia. “I remember being in NYC and heading to Bushwick, Brooklyn to listen to this set of new musicians/artists. I was completely in love with the sound, the work ethic, and the good vibe I felt.”
“That day, I immediately added them to my European tour dates,” Buju reminisces, his words infused with warmth and admiration. “With the help of Penthouse’s Donovan Germain, we brought that sound to the world.”
Formed in the 1980s, the trio comprising Peter “Peetah” Morgan, Roy “Gramps” Morgan, and Memmalatel “Mr. Mojo” Morgan has etched its name as one of the most illustrious families in not just the realm of reggae but in the entirety of music. With a staggering 19 albums under their belt, Morgan Heritage’s musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable with Peetah as lead singer/
Their inaugural album, “Miracle,” debuted in 1994 under MCA Records. However, it wasn’t until their 2015 release, “Strictly Roots,” under their independent label CTBC Music Group, that they clinched their first Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album of the Year.
“I spent the last two weeks of your life with you, working on a very special project,” Buju reveals, with heavy emotion. “Only to wake up today learning you took a short cut, Peter.”
Buju grappling with a profound sense of loss, finds solace in the memories they shared and the legacy Peetah leaves behind.
“You are totally a reggae music superstar who gave from where our father said we should, our hearts, all those memories, all that laughter, all those tours. I am going to miss you Peter and I will comfort myself with this thought.”
As Buju bids farewell to his dear friend and musical collaborator, he is joined by Tarrus Riley who shared in his owns posted the words, “💔…..Only Jah Knw Jah Alone Knw…❤️💛💚👑🦁”
“You cannot come to us but we must come to where you are,” Buju concludes, his long post filled with unprecedented emotion. “Until then Peter, I love you. The brother I never had.”
Ziggy Marley, who is on a busy schedule promoting the “Bob Marley: One Love” movie took time out to post his own condolences for the family of Peetah saying, “Really saddened to hear the news today family Peetah move on from this sphere . Sending all our love and condolences to @morganheritage and family. Our community will miss him bad bad bad. JAH know 🥲. JAH love @peetahmusic.”
His sister Sharon Marley also joined in the tribute saying, “Give our flowers now cause today we’re here 🙏🏾🙏🏾🥲.”
