The Reggae icon that many know and love, Bob Marley. Most known for his positive lyrics Bob Marley, Nesta Robert Marley, called others to resist oppression and division throughout his life. Breaking through the surface you see why he makes music as he touches on topics of the past, religion, love and societal injustice. Bringing attention to the hate and negativity. Denouncing negative things while encouraging others to be positive and find peace. Marley’s music has two sides and purposes; One spreading positivity and love.The other demands justice and unity, both messages being positively impactful to this day.
One of his famous albums, Exodus, first released in ‘77 with the most popular song, and still one of his top five most streamed songs, “One Love/People Get Ready” encouraging togetherness in all people. For one love and unity for everyone. Having all people together with no fighting. Asking others to have pity on the less fortunate. The purpose of Marley’s song is to create a positive change.
Off of his 12th and final studio album Uprising which was released in ‘80, “Real Situation” is a track with a distinct funky beat and percussion. Calling for liberation from the fighting that has seemingly no end as the oppression in the land worsened, dividing the nation. Marley utilizes his message attempting to prevent a civil war and promote unity and peace. Marley sees togetherness as the only solution to the situation.
“So Much Trouble In the World” released in ‘79 is a mid-tempo reggae song utilizing guitar, drums and layered backing vocals. Coming off of Marley’s album Survival, calling attention to the state of the world using his music as an outlet to send a message to listeners. That people are not caring enough for each other and suffering. Asking for everyone to just give a little to the ones who are struggling, and less fortunate.
After his passing many of Marley’s children pursued careers in music.Some followed similar paths as him in reggae; others found their own sounds. They started creating their own music. His Grandsons also began to release music.
Skip Marley, the son of Cecdella Marley, released the single “Slow Down” Ft.R&B singer, H.E.R. in 2019. Slow and calm with flawless vocals it is more of an R&B love song with a reggae background beat. Using guitars to add a dramatic romantic effect to the song. Different from other Marley family music; H.E.R. ‘s voice forms a perfect harmony with Marley.The back and forth singing of the 2 artists creates the feeling of lovers talking.
The son of Famous Lauryn Hill and Rohan Marley; YG Marley, born Joshua Nesta Marley, released “Praise Jah in the Moonlight” in December of 2023 gaining an astronomical amount of attention and success. Immediately receiving love from all generations. Bringing nostalgia to those who once listened and loved Bob Marley’s music and him. Having his own sound, yet taking inspiration from his Grandfather with his use of layered background vocals. Combining new techniques of music and beats with classic reggae instruments. I’m excited to see if the young prodigy will be the newest talent the Marley family will bring. As listeners are now anxiously waiting for his next hit.
