The passing of Peter “Peetah” Morgan, lead singer of the Jamaican reggae group Morgan Heritage, resonated deeply in Kenya.
The nation had considered the band a beloved part of its own musical landscape. Over the past eight years, Morgan Heritage cultivated an exceptional bond with Kenya, solidifying its presence through investments, collaborations, and a deep connection with the local music scene. Their journey began in 2015 when they arrived in Nairobi for the “Extravaganza” concert. While originally scheduled for a brief stay, the band extended their visit for two weeks, sparking comparisons to previous musicians who had overstayed due to unforeseen circumstances. However, Morgan Heritage’s intentions differed.
They expressed a genuine desire to make Kenya their “second home,” a sentiment echoed by their late promoter, Kevin “Big Kev” Ombajo. This unwavering commitment manifested in various ways. Despite achieving international recognition with a Grammy win in 2016, Morgan Heritage remained dedicated to establishing a permanent presence in Kenya. DJ Kriss Darling, a member of the Dohty Family reggae DJ group and close friend of the band, notes the evident sense of belonging they found in Kenya, unlike any other country they had visited. This connection extended to their personal lives as evidenced by their land acquisition for organic farming in Naivasha, a testament to their long-term commitment to the nation.
The band’s affection for Kenya extended beyond personal investment. They readily collaborated with Kenyan artists like Wyre (“Guarantee”) and Otile Brown (“Wacha Nikupende” and “Some Fun”), further solidifying their bond with the local music scene. Radio presenter Tallia Oyando fondly recalls Peetah’s playful personality while musician-promoter Moses Mbasu, known as Budha Blaze, emphasizes the band’s genuine love for Kenya, highlighting their national preference over others in a recent interview.
Gramps Morgan, another member of the band, further reiterated this sentiment by stating that Kenya, unlike Nigeria or even Ethiopia with its strong Rastafari connection, truly resonated with them. This deep connection is reflected not only in their music collaborations but also through their ownership of residences in Nairobi and their venture into organic farming. The loss of Peetah Morgan has left a significant void in the Kenyan music scene and beyond.
Morgan Heritage’s profound impact transcends mere musical entertainment. Peetah was an ambassador of cultural exchange and genuine affection, leaving behind a legacy of connection and deep-rooted love for Kenya.
