Still Fighting the Good Fight: A Spin with Peter Tosh’s ‘Equal Rights’

If you’re anything like us, your playlist is probably a vibrant tapestry of riddims, basslines, and conscious lyrics. But every now and then, you need to hit refresh and revisit the foundational texts, the albums that didn’t just play music but made history. And when we talk history, we have to talk about the one and only Peter Tosh and his absolute powerhouse of an album, ‘Equal Rights’.

Released in 1977, this isn’t just an album; it’s a declaration. It’s Peter Tosh, the “Stepping Razor,” in his prime, sharpening his lyrical blades and aiming them squarely at injustice, oppression, and hypocrisy. If Bob Marley was the prophet, Peter Tosh was the warrior, and ‘Equal Rights’ is his battle cry.

The Message: Loud, Clear, and Unapologetic

From the moment the needle drops (or the play button is pressed!), you’re hit with an undeniable force. Tosh wasn’t one to mince words, and on ‘Equal Rights,’ he lays it all out. The album is a masterclass in protest music, tackling themes that are, sadly, as relevant today as they were nearly five decades ago: racial inequality, political corruption, the struggle for freedom, and, of course, the fight for cannabis legalization.

The title track, “Equal Rights,” is a righteous demand for justice, delivered with a conviction that sends shivers down your spine. It’s a call to arms, reminding us that true peace can only come when everyone is treated with dignity and fairness.

The Hits: More Than Just Songs, They’re Anthems!

You can’t talk about ‘Equal Rights’ without mentioning the absolute gems that reside within.

• “Get Up, Stand Up”: Yes, the anthem he co-wrote with Bob Marley gets a powerful, raw, and distinctly Tosh-ian rendition here. It’s less of a gentle nudge and more of a firm, unyielding push to fight for your rights.
• “Stepping Razor”: This track is pure, unadulterated Peter Tosh. It’s menacing, cool, and a warning to anyone who dares to cross him. The bassline alone is enough to make you feel like you’re walking on hallowed ground.
• “Legalize It”: While it appeared on his previous album, its inclusion here (in some versions, or its spirit certainly permeates) solidifies Tosh’s unwavering stance. It’s a laid-back groove with a serious message, advocating for freedom and natural rights.
• “Downpressor Man”: A blistering critique of oppressive systems, delivered with a fiery passion that only Tosh could muster. It’s a reminder that those who seek to keep others down will ultimately face their own reckoning.

Tosh’s vocals throughout the album are a force of nature—sometimes a growl, sometimes a plea, always dripping with sincerity and power. The musicianship is top-notch, with the rhythm section laying down grooves that are both heavy and hypnotic.

Why It Still Matters

‘Equal Rights’ isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a living, breathing testament to the power of music as a tool for change. It reminds us that reggae isn’t just about good vibes (though it has plenty of those!); it’s about consciousness, resistance, and the unwavering pursuit of a better world.

So, if you haven’t spun ‘Equal Rights’ in a while, or if you’re new to the magic of Peter Tosh, do yourself a favor. Put it on, turn it up, and let the message resonate. You might just find yourself feeling a little more inspired to stand up for what’s right.

One Love, always! 🎶