The Wailers

The Wailers emerged as a Jamaican ska, rocksteady and reggae band noted for songs such as “Simmer Down”, “Trenchtown Rock”, “Nice Time”, “War”, “Stir It Up” and “Get Up, Stand Up”. The founding members, in 1963, were Bob Marley (Robert Nesta Marley), Peter Tosh (Hubert Winston McIntosh), and Bunny Wailer (Neville Livingston). In May 1970, the band recorded with renowned reggae producer Leslie Kong; producing The Best of the Wailers, which they released later in 1971 as their fourth album. Over the rest of 1970 and 1971, the band worked with Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, producing the bands second and third albums, Soul Rebels (1970) and Soul Revolution Part II (1971). During this time, the Upsetters members Aston “Family Man” Barrett (bass) and his brother Carlton Barrett (drums) were recruited as instrumental backing for The Wailers. They released four albums before signing to Island Records in 1972. Two more albums were created before Tosh and Wailer left the band in 1974, citing grievances over label treatment and ideological differences. Marley carried on with a new line-up, including the I-Threes that put out seven more albums. After the death of Bob Marley in 1981, the Wailers continued, led by Aston Barret. The band continued to play a heavy worldwide touring schedule, and recorded with several singers. Carlton “Carly” Barrett, 36, was murdered at his Jamaica home in 1987. In 1989, Aston Barrett released the album I.D., and continued using the Wailers name when collaborating with other artists. Under the guidance of Aston Barrett Jr, son of the legendary “Familyman”, The Wailers continue to preserve the legacy of their iconic sound. Their culture-defining music, embodying the spirit of the 70s reggae movement, has left an indelible mark on the industry. In 2017, Aston Barrett Jr. received a Grammy certificate as co-producer with Damian Marley for the track The Struggle Discontinues, featured in the Album “Stony Hill” which won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album. Aston Barrett Jr. is a co-owner of BAD Lions Productions, LLC. who operates a studio in Pompano Beach, Florida. He can be heard playing guitar, drums, bass, and organ for Stephen Marley, Junior Reed, Julian Marley, Kwame Bediaco, Aka Beka, Jessee Royale, Reggae Force, and many more. His sponsors include Rupert Neve (whose pro audio gear is heard on every album he has played on and every live Wailers show), as well as Fender, Mannabasso, Black Lion Audio, and Pigtronics. In 2020, The Wailers made a comeback with their new album, “One World,” produced by Emilio Estefan. The first single, “One World, One Prayer”, is a powerful anthem for unity, love, and inclusivity, and features a blend of Jamaican reggae and urban Latin music. The track includes international sensation Farruko, Jamaican icon Shaggy, and members of the Marley family, including Cedella and Skip Marley.The Wailers’ long-awaited album, “One World”, earned a 2021 Grammy® nomination for Best Reggae Album, marking the band’s first recording in 25 years. In 2022, The Wailers welcomed a new vocalist, Mitchell Brunings, adding even more dynamic energy to their already electrifying live shows. Brunings is a talented vocalist who has made a name for himself with his soulful voice and powerful stage presence. The Wailers continue to captivate audiences with their unique brand of reggae, blending the sounds of the past with a fresh, contemporary flair. Brunning’s addition to the band has been widely praised by fans and music critics alike, solidifying The Wailers’ status as one of the most exciting live acts in the world.