The Human Rights. Live at BSMT 254. Sat. Dec. 28th. 2 sets of sweet Reggae music. Hosted by Clifton Joseph with selections by DJ Chocolate.
The Human Rights first came together in 2007, around the talents and vision of lead singer and Toronto Reggae lion Friendlyness (Big Sugar, Culture Shock, Truth And Rights), drummer Eric Woolston (Maylee Todd, The Hooded Fang), versatile bassman Tyler Wagler and the band’s original keyboardist Bernie Pitters (Toots & The Maytals, Hit Squad), who passed away in 2023 and in whose loving memory the band continues forward. The band quickly gained a reputation as Toronto’s house Reggae band, sharing the stage and often backing the likes of The Wailers, Gregory Isaacs, Beres Hammond, John Holt, Freddie McGregor, Sanchez, and other top international Reggae artists. The Human Rights recently had the opportunity to open for American roots-rock legends The Black Crowes at Casino Rama in front of over 5,000 people.
In 2014, much-loved Toronto vocalist Tréson (who has recorded with the likes of Black Uhuru spearhead Mykal Rose) joined the band, giving The Human Rights a distinctively powerful two-man front line that seamlessly moves between modern roots reggae, lovers rock, soul, R&B and dancehall vibes. After Bernie’s health began preventing him from touring, Canadian keys legend Dave Jackson stepped in on bubble and skank. The “Declaration of Human Rights” horn section is now led by acclaimed trombonist Tom Richards, who is best known from his genre-bending work with The Heavyweights Brass Band and Riverrun.
By the end of 2024, The Human Rights will have played over 250 festival and club shows across Canada and the United States. Their live highlights include: The New Orleans Reggae Festival, Austin Reggae Festival, Hillside, Northern Lights, Harbourfront Centre, Roy Thomson Hall, The Phoenix Concert Theatre and many other top venues across North America. They have released three full-length albums, including their 2016 self-titled record which was produced by Canadian music icon and Big Sugar founder Gordie Johnson and their most recent LP Reggae Strong (2021) which is dedicated to Bernie Pitters. Their fourth album One People is scheduled for release March 7, 2025.
