At the Summerjam Festival in Cologne, Germany, a new chapter began for one of reggae’s most iconic bands. Morgan Heritage, known for their deep-rooted reggae anthems and decades-long legacy, introduced Jemere Morgan as their new lead singer, ushering in a powerful era of renewal following the loss of a beloved family member.
This marked the band’s first major public appearance since the passing of Peter “Peetah” Morgan in February 2024. Peetah, the former lead vocalist, played a central role in Morgan Heritage’s rise to global fame, helping secure a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2016 with Strictly Roots. His death at 46 sent shockwaves through the reggae world and left a significant void in the group’s dynamic.
Jemere Morgan, stepping into this legacy, is more than just the band’s new voice — he is a continuation of a generational story. Born in Kingston and raised between Jamaica and the U.S., he grew up surrounded by the music and message of reggae. As the son of Roy “Gramps” Morgan and nephew to Peetah, Jemere was immersed in the sounds of the genre from an early age, often joining his family on tour and in the studio.
Over the past year, Jemere carved out his own path as a solo artist. His debut single “Higher We Go” released in 2024 introduced his smooth tenor and inspirational lyrics. It was followed by collaborations with major reggae figures and a remix featuring prominent artists, showcasing his ability to blend roots reggae with modern rhythms. His most recent track, “Sweet Love,” released in early 2025, revealed a mature sound and emotional depth, confirming his growth as a vocalist.
Although he had previously made guest appearances with the group, Jemere officially took on the lead role during the 75-minute headline set at Summerjam. He performed classic Morgan Heritage hits like “Down by the River,” “Tell Me How Come,” and “She’s Still Loving Me,” while also bringing his own presence and interpretations to the stage. Supported by his father Gramps, Aunt Una, and Uncle Mojo, the performance signaled a symbolic and emotional passing of the torch.
Jemere’s vocal style fuses the groove and consciousness of traditional reggae with hints of R&B and soul. His approach respects the group’s established identity while adding his own distinctive flavor. Rather than mimic Peetah’s voice, Jemere brings a fresh energy that honors the legacy while forging a new direction.
Following the successful debut, Morgan Heritage is set to embark on a global tour throughout the summer of 2025. The schedule includes major festivals across Europe, such as Uppsala Reggae Festival in Sweden and Reggae Land in London, as well as dates in Germany and Spain. The tour will offer fans a blend of the group’s beloved classics and Jemere’s evolving solo catalog.
With this new chapter, Morgan Heritage continues its mission of spreading powerful messages through music. Jemere’s emergence ensures the family tradition remains vibrant, bridging generations and keeping the spirit of reggae alive for years to come.
