The Life of Peter Tosh

Book excerpt: The very first biography of Peter Tosh, rude boy, founder member of The Wailers and a compelling recording artist in his own right. Tosh was an abrasive man who would eventually fall victim to his own uncompromising personality, ultra-radical politics and a fearsome gangsta reputation. One of reggae's most extraordinary stories, the life of Peter Tosh could have only one end. He was murdered in a gunfight at his own home in 1987. One year later his album No Nuclear War won the first ever Grammy award for best reggae album. Here are the women, the drugs and the story behind Legalise It, Tosh's famous early plea for the decriminalisation of marijuana. His personal musical odyssey is explored in detail as he strove to emerge from the shadow of Bob Marley, eventually signing a contract with Rolling Stones Records.Tosh's darker side is also revealed and the book includes an account of a notorious standoff with Keith Richards involving a machete and a loaded rifle!