the Human Rights

The Human Rights first came together in 2007, around the talents and vision of lead singer and Toronto Reggae lion Friendlyness (Big Sugar, Culture Shock, Truth And Rights), drummer Eric Woolston (Maylee Todd, The Hooded Fang), versatile bassman Tyler Wagler and the band’s original keyboardist Bernie Pitters (Toots & The Maytals, Hit Squad), who passed away in 2023 and in whose loving memory the band continues forward. The band quickly gained a reputation as Toronto’s house Reggae band of sorts, sharing the stage and often backing the likes of The Wailers, Gregory Isaacs, Beres Hammond, John Holt, Freddie McGregor, Sanchez, and other top international Reggae artists. In 2014, much-loved Toronto vocalist Tréson (who has recorded with the likes of Black Uhuru spearhead Mykal Rose) joined the band, giving The Human Rights a distinctively powerful two-man front line that seamlessly moves between modern roots reggae, lovers rock, soul, R&B and dancehall vibes. After Bernie Pitters’ health began preventing him from touring, Canadian keys legend Dave Jackson stepped in on bubble and skank. The “Declaration of Human Rights” horn section is now led by acclaimed trombonist Tom Richards, who is best known from his genre-bending work with The Heavyweights Brass Band and Riverrun.