Bob Marley

May 11 marks the thirtieth anniversary of the death of Bob Marley.  If you think his death was just another unfortunate end to a musician, you would be wrong.  Bob Marley was revolutionary in his music and his message.  He used his art to inspire millions of people in developed and developing countries to look for peace and acceptance.  He hoped to inspire people to stand up for themselves, their rights and the rights of others. 

Bob Marley was born Robert Nesta Marley in a poor village in Jamaica.  His father was a white Jamaican-born, British national and his mother was a black Jamaican.  His mixed ethic background led to considerable ridicule and abuse during Marley’s childhood.  His father left the family when he was young having little contact with his son. 

Bob soon found acceptance through music.  While living in Trench Town, a poverty stricken part of Kingston, he met his childhood and musical friends, Bunny Livingston and Peter McIntosh (later known as Peter Tosh).   Together they would explore the music of reggae and ska.  The three would form a group called the Wailing Wailers and released their first record in 1964.  They gained extensive notoriety throughout Jamaica, but it would be another 11 years until their music was widely played in England and 12 years until they would have their first American hit. 

During this time, Bob’s music and message took on a more spiritual and political nature.  Exploring the religion of Rastafarian, Marley reached the hearts and minds of millions of Third World citizens.  Their first American hit “War” was based on a speech by Ethiopian leader Halle Selassie.  His controversial political views and his continued support of the Peoples Nation Party in Jamaica led to an assassination attempt in 1976.  Bob was shot twice, once in the sternum and once in the bicep.  While not being mortally wounded, Bob refused to allow the sustained injuries to prevent him from playing the scheduled show days later.

1977 proved to be a significant year in his life.  First, he and his band released the album Exodus.  The album was such a huge success its singles stayed on the charts for the next three tears.  Songs including “Waiting in Vain”, “Exodus”, and “Jammin’” make this one of the best albums ever released.  In addition, 1977 included the discovery of cancerous cells in his toes.  While his religious belief prevented him from current medical procedures, he found some relief through natural remedies.

He was able to continue to create and inspire for another four year until in 1981 the cancer spread throughout his body.  His funeral was attended by over 30,000 people in Jamaica.  Before his death he was awarded the Order of Merit from the Jamaican government and the Medal of Peace from the United Nations in 1980. 

His music still inspires people today.  His message of peace, unity and strength are as relevant today as they were 30+ years ago.  He is revered in his homeland and in many African nations.

 

Do you or have you ever listened to Bob Marley’s music?  If so, do you like it?  Do you think music can change the world?  Why or why not?  What music do you listen to and why?  Are there any artists today trying to change the world through their craft?  Who and how?