The Meditations

Formation of The Meditations

The Meditations were formed in late 1974, when Danny Clarke left The Righteous Flames, recruiting Ansel Cridland (previously of The Linkers) and Winston Watson.

Early Recordings and Hits

After releasing singles credited to the individual members, they began recording as The Meditations in late 1976, shortly after which they released their biggest hit, Woman Is Like a Shadow, which sold over 45,000 copies in its first month of release. They recorded in the mid-1970s for producers such as Dobby Dobson, Joseph Hoo Kim, and Lee Scratch Perry, their righteously Rastafarian style gaining comparisons with The Mighty Diamonds. Their first album, Message From The Meditations, was released in 1977.

Collaborations

The Meditations sang backing vocals on a number of Bob Marley songs, including Blackman Redemption, Punky Reggae Party, and Rastaman Live Up, as well as providing backing for Gregory Isaacs, Jimmy Cliff, and The Congos (on their Heart of the Congos album).

Notable Performances

They appeared at the One Love Peace Concert in April 1978, officially a commemoration of the 12th anniversary of Haile Selassie's state visit to Jamaica, but more famous for the handshake between Michael Manley and Edward Seaga when they joined Bob Marley on stage.

Albums and Line-Up Changes

The Meditations' 1983 album, No More Friend, was produced by Linval Thompson and featured The Roots Radics, and saw them adapting to the prevailing dancehall sound. Cridland left the group, leaving Clarke and Watson to record 1988's For The Good of Man without him, but they were reunited for 1993's Return of The Meditations.

Touring and Current Status

They have subsequently toured the United States and Europe. All three members are now based in the US, with Clarke in Phoenix, Arizona, Watson in Seattle, Washington, and Cridland in New York City.

Event Admission Policy

This event is 21 and over. Any ticket holder unable to present valid identification indicating that they are at least 21 years of age will not be admitted to this event, and will not be eligible for a refund.