Remembering Bob Marley

Remembering Bob Marley

Remembering Bob Marley
May 11, 2011 marks the 30th anniversary of iconic reggae singer Bob Marley’s death. To honor the legend’s life, we take a look at how he grew from modest beginnings to one of the world’s most beloved musical icons.

 Early years
Born: Feb. 6, 1945 in a small village in Jamaica.

His parents: Bob Marley was born to his mother Cedella Booker and his father Norval Sinclair Marley who was from another country.

Childhood friend: Bob and his closest childhood friend Neville “Bunny” Livingston were later raised as stepbrothers in a poor neighborhood in Kingston. 

 His career
The Wailers: Together with Bunny Wailer and noted reggae musician Peter Tosh, Bob formed “Bob Marley & The Wailers” in 1963  

Hits: The Wailers had numerous hits  including groundbreaking tunes like “Get Up, Stand Up”  and “I Shot the Sheriff”  which regained popularity after another music legend covered it.

Break-up: In 1974 the band broke up, but Bob continued to record under the name “Bob Marley and the Wailers.” The other members, Tosh  and Bunny  also enjoyed successful solo careers. 

 Political influence
One Love Peace Concert: Bob’s most influential political moment occurred during his One Love Peace Concert in 1978 when he invited Jamaican Prime Minister Michael Manley  and his rival, leader of the opposition party Edward Seaga on stage to shake hands.

Peace award: He was later awarded the Peace Medal of the Third World by the United Nations for his efforts to secure political harmony in Jamaica. 

 Personal life
His wife: In 1966, Bob married his Rita who was sometimes called “Nana Rita”. She was a member of the I Threes, a trio of women who sang backup for The Wailers.

His children: Bob and Rita had three children. According to his official website, he has eight other children, six of whom were born to other women and two who were from Rita’s other relationships. Sons Ziggy and Stephen have successful music careers.

Rastafari: Bob was a devoted member of the Rastafarian movement, which inspired his vegetarianism and his spiritual use of cannabis. 

 His music
Genre: Though Bob is best known as a reggae musician, his music also reflects another Jamaican style as well as a successor to it. 

Greatest hits: Bob wrote his songs, played rhythm guitar and sang lead vocals. His greatest hits album, “Legend” is both the highest selling reggae album of all time and the highest selling album by a Jamaican musician. Find others.

 His last days
His cancer diagnosis: In 1977, Bob was diagnosed with cancer. What album did he release in 1980 after his diagnosis?

His untimely death: On May 11, 1981 Bob succumbed to his illness in Miami. The track “Redemption Song”  written in 1979, is thought to reflect Bob’s recognition of his own mortality.  Watch him perform the song just a year before his death. 

 His legacy
Influence: His influence and popularity have continued after his death. He is revered not only as a music legend, but also as a prophet of peace and a hero of the Rastafarian movement.

Recognition: The Bob Marley Museum, his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame  his induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the multitude of  Bob Marley merchandise available are all evidence of his lasting legacy. 

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