Bob Marley’s Legendary Wailers Are Returning To Malta
On August 25th, The Wailers are returning to the shores of Malta. That’s correct, the Wailers! The legendary reggae band forever-etched into the annals of music history for their timeless work with Bob Marley are coming to Aria in San Gwann to spread their rhythmic message of love, peace, unity, and respect with the people of Malta.
This will be the band’s second career performance on the island in ten years – their last appearance being at the Malta Jazz & Wine Festival in Valletta back in 2007 – and the island is absolutely buzzing.
Bob Marley of course sadly passed away back in 1981, and will be present with his band in spirit, through his immortalized lyrics calling for peace, love and respect.
The man stepping up to carry Bob Marley’s torch, Josh Barrett, is no ordinary man himself. The devout Rastafarian was invited to fill the somewhat-daunting void in 2014, and Josh has been stunning crowds devout fans and casual listeners alike, ever since.
Josh’s invitation came directly from The Wailers’ drummer Aston Barrett Jr. – a distant cousin of Josh’s, and son of Wailers’ legendary co-founder, bass player, and band-leader, Aston “Familyman” Barrett.
Playing for us in Malta alongside the Barrett men are original Wailers members Junior Marvin (lead guitar), Donald Kinsey (guitar) – as well as Bob Marley and The Wailers’ original sound engineer, Dennis Thompson.
While the remaining members of today’s Wailers may not be original members – they have astonishingly impressive backgrounds that should definitely not be overlooked.
Shema McGregor (vocals & harmony), is the daughter of reggae legends Freddie McGregor and Judy Mowatt and grew up a musical prodigy. Owen “Dreadie” Reid (Rhythm Guitar & Bass) was taught by Wailers band leader Aston “Familyman” Barrett himself, and has performed with Julian Marley & The Uprising Band. Javaughn Bond (Keyboards & Vocals) has performed alongside Julian and Stephen Marley, and had his first album produced by Damian Marley. And true citizen of the world, Hassanah (Vocals & Harmony), is a German-Nigerian singer raised in New Zealand who has recorded alongside Junior Marvin, Freddie McGregor and Marcia Giffiths.
The Wailers keeping their legend alive!
For those who are interested in getting on the action (we imagine that’s most of you!) – The Wailers will be playing the ARIA Complex in San Gwann on August 25th. Doors will open at 7pm, where Maltese Ska band, The Rifffs, will be opening up. Tickets are available at ShowsHappening.com, and they probably won’t last very long.