Errol Wizdom: Celebrating 33 years of Music, Culture & Legacy

For the past 35 years, Errol Wizdom has called Pittsburgh home. The Jamaican leads the Errol Wizdom World Beat Reggae Band, one of the most popular reggae acts in the region.

On October 10, the singer/musician will celebrate that milestone with a show at the LIT Cigar Lounge.

“There are some great lounges and music spaces around Pittsburgh today, where people can enjoy live entertainment and a good atmosphere. LIT Cigar Lounge, located on Hamilton Avenue, is one of those places, and I’m excited to bring my world beat reggae sound into that environment,” said Wizdom.

He and American guitarist Greg Hampton started the World Beat Reggae Band in 1992. They have performed throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states, as well as opened shows for big names like The Wailers and J Boog.

The Errol Wizdom World Beat Reggae Band has also released two albums. During the past year, Wizdom has recorded songs at Tuff Gong International studios in Kingston, Jamaica for an album, tentatively scheduled for release in early 2027.

Errol Williams (his real name) moved to Pittsburgh in 1991, 10 years after Marley’s death. The reggae legend — who was diagnosed with terminal cancer one week before in New York City — played his last show at the Stanley Theatre (now the Benedum Center) on September 23, 1980.

Wizdom had recorded intermittently while in Jamaica, and was an experienced singer/musician by the time he migrated to the United States. With the World Beat Reggae Band, he has released several songs in addition to the clutch of albums.

Last year, they released three singles — ‘Reggae Dancehall’, ‘Cherry of My Life’ and ‘Jamming on The Mountain’, which are expected to be on their third album.

The show on October 10 is a big deal for Wizdom.

“For me, this is about creating an experience — reggae, soul, DJ culture and live musicians all coming together under one roof. I want people to come out, relax, dance, enjoy themselves and feel the music,” he said. “October 10 is not just a show for me. It’s another step in the journey — keeping the reggae spirit alive, building community and giving Pittsburgh something special.”

(Photo contributed)