In 1968, Jamaican vocal group The Maytals – more popularly known as Toots and the Maytals – released Monkey Man, a record that eventually became their first international hit song. It is said that it was created affectionately, as a dig aimed at their producer at the time, Leslie Kong.
Approximately half a century later, in 2023, Richie Spice – who is a member of the Rastafari movement – has put his spin on the tune. Opting to maintain much of the original lyrics and flow, Spice has titled his version Rasta Man. Another noticable difference is the more pronounced ska sounds heard on Richie‘s track versus that of the original done by The Maytals.
Richie Spice‘s Rasta Man is among twenty-one songs featured on the Celebrating Jamaica 61 album published by Tad’s Record Inc. Both the single and the LP are available on iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Deezer, and all other music platforms.
MARIA JACKSON 27 MAGAZINE 