PIONEER British reggae band Steel Pulse has replaced Toots and The Maytals on this weekend’s Groovin’ In The Park show in Queens, New York.

The Maytals withdrew as lead singer Toots Hibbert continues to recuperate from a head injury he sustained during a concert in Virginia last month.

“This unavoidable decision was made by Toots’ medical team as it has been determined that any performances at this time could seriously compromise his health and well-being,” a statement from Hibbert’s management said.

The Maytals have also cancelled a six-week European tour which was scheduled to start in July.

Led by charismatic singer/songwriter David Hinds, Steel Pulse emerged during the tumultuous 1970s in Britain. They are best known for message songs such as Rally Round The Flag, Stepping Out and the groundbreaking album, True Democracy.

They join Rhythm and Blues acts Patti LaBelle, Tank, Ginuwine and Tyrese, and fellow reggae artistes Sanchez, Barrington Levy and Queen Ifrica on Groovin In The Park which takes place at Roy Wilkins Park.