Canadian roots reggae kings also announce spring tour dates in support of One People LP out March 7
Canada’s finest roots reggae band The Human Rights has announced the March 7 release of its fourth album, One People, another testament to the group’s tireless mission to spread good vibes along with good grooves.
That’s all present on the album’s first single “Life Is The Thing” – available now on all digital platforms and Bandcamp – which The Human Rights’ co-founder and lead vocalist Friendlyness describes as, “A new track with a classic sound, and a message of hope for all. No matter what ups and downs we’re going through, it’s good to recognize that life is the greatest thing of all. Must be lived and can’t be bought!”
The Human Rights are certainly entering 2025 with a lot of positive energy. The end of 2024 marked over 250 festival and club shows the band has played across Canada and the U.S., with a recent highlight being a Canadian opening slot for The Black Crowes. The Human Rights will be back on the road in Canada this spring in support of One People (SEE DATES BELOW).
The Human Rights first came together in 2007 around the talents and vision of Friendlyness, a Toronto Reggae lion who had previously worked with Big Sugar, Culture Shock and Truth And Rights. He was joined by drummer Eric Woolston (Maylee Todd, The Hooded Fang), versatile bassman Tyler Wagler, and keyboardist Bernie Pitters (Toots & The Maytals, Hit Squad), who sadly passed away in 2023. One People carries on Pitters’ loving memory, and his spirit continues to propel the band forward.
The Human Rights quickly established a reputation while showcasing their original material while opening for 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, and 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’s health began preventing him from touring, Canadian keyboard legend Dave Jackson stepped in. The Declaration of Human Rights horn section is the musical icing on the cake featuring members of The Heavyweights Brass Band, Kune, and Shout! The Band.
After making their debut album One Thing in 2010, The Human Rights worked with Big Sugar’s Gordie Johnson on their 2016 self-titled collection that solidified their sound both in the studio and on stage. That energy was carried forward on 2021’s Reggae Strong (2021) which Amplify Music Magazine described as, “their finest album to date, while once again proving Reggae’s ability to unite and inspire everyone struggling to get through tough times.”
Expect more of the same from The Human Rights on One People, an album that arrives just when it’s needed most.
