Bob Marley: Musician

Robert (Bob) Nesta Marley, Jamaican singer-songwriter, was born Feb. 6, 1945 on his grandfather’s farm. Marley is most famously known for his work in reggae and his cultural influence. He began playing music with his childhood friend Neville Livingston (Bunny Wailer) in grade and elementary school. Livingston convinced Marley to learn how to play the guitar, and from there his world was surrounded by reggae, ska, and even R&B from radio stations in the United States. This world renowned artist often moved people with his music. He is one of the most beloved artist of this day and first international superstar from a “third-world” country.

In 1963 Bob Marley began to lead the reggae band  “The Wailers” who are known for their songs “Buffalo Soldier”, “Redemption Song”, and “Three Little Birds”. The Wailers got their big break in 1972 when they landed a contract with Island Record. Finally, the group hit the studios to record a full album. Between 1991 and 2007 Bob Marley and The Wailers sold in excess of 21 million records.

in Jamaica, Marley continued to be seen as a supporter of the People's National Party. And his influence in his native land was seen as a threat to the PNP's rivals. This may have led to the assassination attempt on Marley in 1976. A group of gunmen attacked Marley and the Wailers while they were rehearsing on the night of December 3, 1976, two days before a planned concert in Kingston's National Heroes Park. One bullet struck Marley in the sternum and the bicep, and another hit his wife, Rita, in the head.

Fortunately, the Marleys were not severely injured, but manager Don Taylor was not as fortunate. Shot five times, Taylor had to undergo surgery to save his life. Despite the attack and after much deliberation, Marley still played at the show. The motivation behind the attack was never uncovered, and Marley fled the country the day after the concert.

From then, Marley spent time living in London where he wrote  “Exodus”, released in 1977, and stayed on the U.K. charts for more than a year. His music spoke of his dedication to his beliefs and the idea to wage peace in time of war. Later on that year, Marley had a health scare after doctors found melanoma under his toe. Doctors suggested removing the toe to prevent spreading or even death. Marley refused to have the surgery, because his religious beliefs prohibited amputation.

In 1979, Marley released another album entitled “survival” that spreads a message to end oppression on the African continent. The band toured through Europe to promote the album. The shows were booked before marley became ill, and he had to stop in Germany for treatment. IT was clear that the singer was too ill and didn’t have much time to live. So, he decided to return to Jamaica before his death.

Unfortunately, he only made it to Miami, Florida before passing away.

Shortly before his death, Marley had received the Order of Merit from the Jamaican government. He had also been awarded the Medal of Peace from the United Nations in 1980. Marley was given a hero's send-off. More than 30,000 people paid their respects to the musician during his memorial service. Thank you Bob Marley, for all the amazing music.