Robin Canfield
Barometer Staff Writer
Barret has fronted the band since Marley’s death on May 11, 1981, directing subsequent tours and album releases.
It was a fuzzy phone connection that would die shortly later, and the man was tired.
“We just came back from Hawaii,” Barrett said. “And we just played in San Francisco last night.”
After they finish touring the United States, the Wailers are continuing on to Europe.
“I’ve been on the road since 1969 to 2003 non-stop,” Barrett said with a sigh.
After his previous band The Upsetters, The Wailers is the only band that Barrett has toured and recorded with continually. After Marley died, it was Barrett that took over the reins.
The only other two members of the Wailers that still remain are Earl “Wya” Lindo, an organ player who joined the Wailers in 1972, and Al Anderson, an American who joined the band as lead guitarist for Marley when Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingstone left the band.
One of the highlights of The Wailers on tour is the horn section recorded on several Bob Marley and The Wailers albums, but never toured in Marley’s time.
“We’ve been playing lots of music, especially from the Bob Marley and The Wailers catalog,” Barrett said.
“One Love,” “Stir It Up” and “Jammin’” are just a few of the many classics played at a Wailers show.
The Wailers also draw on a catalog of several albums released since Barrett took control. These albums include I.D. (1989), Never Ending Wailers (1994) and Jah Message (1996).
In recent years, Barrett has released his own albums as well. In 1999, Familyman in Dub and Cobra Style: Lost Productions were released, both entirely credited to “Familyman” Barrett. He also has a soon-to-be-released CD, titled Legendary Wailers In Dub.
Barrett handled mixing and producing much of the music for Bob Marley and The Wailers. He continues to use his skills to help others today. Barrett has mentored many young artists including bassist Robbie Shakespeare and Marley’s son, Julian.
For a memorable Valentine’s Day event, you’ll find no better option than The Wailers at the McDonald Theater in Eugene. See calendar on B2 for details.
