The premiere of the film “One Love,” portraying the life and music of Jamaican reggae icon Bob Marley, left a long-lasting impression not solely due to the presence of celebrities like Britain’s Prince Harry and Meghan however as a result of it underscored that Marley is not only the epitome of Jamaican legends but additionally a real worldwide music legend.
Born in St. Ann to a black Jamaican mom and deserted by his white Irish father, Marley grew up in a Kingston ghetto, the place he first found and honed his musical skills. Regardless of being frowned upon by Jamaica’s higher class, his legacy extends far past the shores of Jamaica. He stands shoulder to shoulder with iconic American musicians like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Ray Charles, and the British sensation, The Beatles.
It’s predictable that for years to come back, Bob Marley’s title will probably be celebrated as folks worldwide proceed to hearken to his music. As they do, not solely will his legend resonate, however so will the style of reggae music and the Jamaican nation.
The selection of launching the film on February 14, amidst Reggae Month and some days after the 79th anniversary of Marley’s delivery on February 6, is becoming.
Whereas there are lots of musicians and entertainers who’ve gained extra recognition after their passing, few examine to Bob Marley. Over 33 years for the reason that music legend’s passing, his music has by no means been extra widespread, common, and revered worldwide.
Marley wasn’t the only reggae musician of his time, however alongside his band, The Wailers, he catapulted the reggae style onto the worldwide stage, embodying its spirit and spreading it globally with a string of hit songs and albums.
Marley’s contributions to reggae are indeniable, and his affect on the music business is astounding, with many modern artists acknowledging him as a serious supply of inspiration. Furthermore, his lyrics typically convey a message of social upliftment, also known as “constructive vibrations.” The truth is, a lot of his music lyrics have taken on a prophetic standing.
Past music, Marley’s affect prolonged to political and social causes. By means of his music, he championed the wrestle towards apartheid in South Africa, notably in his music “Struggle,” which featured a speech by Haile Selassie, the Ethiopian Emperor and non secular chief of the Rastafarian religion, to which Marley belonged. The music requires equality no matter race or class, a message that is still related because the world grapples with ongoing conflicts.
Marley used his music to advocate for social and political change and was important of political ideologies and what he known as the “scisms” of politicians. His efforts earned him adoration, particularly in Africa, the place he was thought of a heroic determine. In 1980, he acquired the United Nations Medal of Peace for his brave appeals for world justice and peace throughout instances of political unrest, not simply in Jamaica however worldwide.
Marley achieved quite a few accolades throughout his lifetime, together with induction into the Rock and Roll Corridor of Fame in 1994 and the sale of over 22 million data, making him the primary worldwide famous person from a third-world nation. He was additionally honored with Jamaica’s Order of Benefit shortly earlier than succumbing to most cancers on Might 11, 1981.
Even after his passing, Marley’s dedication to combating oppression continues by way of The Bob Marley Basis, established in his reminiscence by his household. The Basis is devoted to aiding folks and organizations in creating nations in addressing the causes Marley passionately articulated by way of his music.
Nonetheless, many Jamaicans imagine that Marley deserves greater than the Order of Benefit. They’re more and more urging the federal government to bestow upon him the nation’s highest honor, Nationwide Hero of Jamaica.
At the moment, Jamaica has seven Nationwide Heroes, however no Jamaican has acquired this honor since 1982. A 2022 survey in Jamaica revealed that roughly 40 % of Jamaicans assist designating Marley as a Nationwide Hero, alongside common folklorist Louise “Miss Lou” Bennett.
The present authorities has established a committee to outline the factors for nationwide hero standing and take into account suggestions, together with Bob Marley, for this esteemed recognition.
Jamaicans each at dwelling and overseas are rising impatient. It’s debatable that no Jamaican has introduced as a lot constructive recognition to one in all Jamaica’s most cherished property, reggae music, and to Jamaica itself as Robert Nesta Marley.
What more criteria is needed to designate him a National Hero? He’s a Jamaican legend whose legacy will endure by way of the ages.
