King Of Reggae

Bob Marley was one of the most influential artists of our time. Marley’s music has touched so many individuals, not just Reggae lovers, but people all over the world. Indeed, he was the voice of the people and the struggle that existed in Jamaica. In addition, his political power and his revolutionary approach seemed to enhance his following as a musician. Bob Marley was considered to be a musical genius that created a vivid picture of life through his eyes. In my opinion, his musical approach was totally opposite from any other artist of his time. He possessed a different sound that could captivate any audience at any given moment. For that reason, he’ll always be considered as one of the greatest artists of our time.

        Bob Marley was born in St. Ann’s Parish, Jamaica; he left home at age 14 to pursue his musical career.  Soon after, he became a student of the Rastafarian movement, which defined his signature Reggae sound. After Marley honed his style the group the Wailers were formed. The group members included Peter Tosh, Bunny Livingston, Junior Braithwaite, Beverley Kelso, and Cherry Smith. The Wailers were able to compose several mainstream classics, which made them musical icons. Indeed, Bob Marley led the Wailers to instant fame and many fans all over the globe. Some of the songs that helped launch the Wailers to success were “ I Shot the Sheriff” and “Burnin”.  As Marley’s fame intensified he was viewed in Jamaica as a figure of mystical proportions, and was looked upon as a prophet. Before the release of their second album Natty Dread, Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingston left the group to pursue their solo careers. During that time Jamaica was experiencing a very difficult political struggle. Marley took the struggle head-on and helped the individuals of Jamaica unify as a people. On the other hand, by him having political ties left him exposed to certain dangers. In 1976 an assassination attempt took place on Marley, which seemed to make the Reggae star have even a greater following. It is True, Bob Marley was with us for only a short time, but he made his mark as a musician and as a political figure. Moreover, he took a style of music and made it his very own. For that reason, the world will always consider him to be the king of Reggae.