Album: Mama Africa

Introduction
"Mama Africa" is an album by the Jamaican reggae artist Peter Tosh, released in 1983. This album is Tosh's sixth studio album, following the highly successful "Wanted Dread and Alive". Mama Africa features a mix of reggae, roots, and components of afrobeat, showcasing Tosh's adaptability as an artist. The album stays an affecting work of political and social commentary, with Peter Tosh articulating his concerns about the oppression faced by African people worldwide.

Background and Production
Following the success of his previous albums, Peter Tosh continued to establish his global audience with the release of "Mama Africa". The album was recorded at Dynamic Sounds Studios in Kingston, Jamaica, and The Rolling Stones' Mobile Studio in England. It was co-produced by Peter Tosh and Chris Kimsey, who had actually previously dealt with The Rolling Stones.

The production of Mama Africa shows Tosh's commitment to excellence, with the artist apparently working tirelessly to achieve the right balance between the horn area, rhythm guitar, and bass. The album's detailed plan and sound quality is a testament to Tosh's know-how as a composer and producer.

Album Composition
"Mama Africa" includes 8 tracks that differ in design and subject matter. Tosh shows his adaptability as a musician by integrating traditional roots reggae, funk, soul, and afrobeat into the album's noise. The album's opening track, "Mama Africa", sets the tone for the record with its perky rhythm, horn area, and Tosh's heartfelt ode to the African continent. The song highlights the significance of Africa's history, values, and culture to the black diaspora.

"Glass House" showcases Tosh's political advocacy with lyrics that slam those who live in glass houses and throw stones, referring to the hypocrisy of world leaders and political leaders. "Not Gon na Give It Up" communicates Tosh's determination to continue fighting for his beliefs and the predicament of the oppressed despite misfortune.

The soulful ballad "Stop That Train" features Tosh's emotive vocals expressing his disillusion with the world's oppression and longing for redemption. "Johnny B. Goode", a cover of Chuck Berry's rock-and-roll classic, is adjusted into a reggae plan, showing Tosh's capability to transcend musical categories while preserving his roots.

"Maga Dog", originally recorded by Tosh with The Wailers in the 1960s, is reimagined on Mama Africa with a more popular horn section and an afrobeat-inspired rhythm section. This upbeat track interacts Tosh's disdain for sycophants, likening them to disloyal, backbiting canines.

The critical track "Where You Gon na Run" is a chance for Tosh to showcase his guitar prowess and the harmonic collaboration between himself and his proficient band members, featuring solos from each area of the group. The last tune "Peace Treaty", makes a powerful declaration on the album, advocating an end to violence and dispute.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Mama Africa" got combined evaluations from music critics, although its business success is undeniable as the album reached No. 61 on the US Billboard 200 Chart. The album remains an important work from a critical figure in reggae music history. Peter Tosh's powerful message of social and political modification continues to resonate with listeners. Mama Africa left an enduring mark on the history of reggae, reinforcing Tosh's position as a prominent voice for social justice and empowering disenfranchised communities worldwide.

Artist: Peter Tosh

Peter Tosh Peter Tosh, a fearless musician and human rights activist known for his powerful songs and inspirational quotes.
More about Peter Tosh

Other Albums by Peter Tosh