Bob Marley propelled reggae into global prominence. Today, the genre’s themes of harmony hold even greater significance.

In June 1980, when Bob Marley performed live for an audience of 8,000 at the Cologne sports arena, he was battling the cancer that ultimately led to his demise. Despite this, he retained his signature charm, enchanting listeners during renditions of "Redemption Song" along with some beloved classics.

Less than a year later, on May 11, 1981, Bob Marley passed away due to issues stemming from his health problems. melanoma He was supposed to turn 80 on February 6, 2025.

Marley introduced reggae and its teachings to a global audience. His influence made the genre so renowned that it was included in UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. Cultural Heritage .

Certainly, Marley's music will likely be heard during this time. reggae Pubs seem to be found in nearly every part of the globe even today. The legacy of the cherished Jamaican musician was likewise honored during these events. 2024 movie "Bob Marley: One Love," inspired by his life.

The political and spiritual themes in his music remain equally relevant against the backdrop of current societal upheavals.

A follower of Rastafari

Reggae has undoubtedly been shaped by Rastafari , the religious and political ideology that Bob Marley started exploring at the age of 22. This philosophy was comparatively new religion developed in Jamaica when Haile Selassie On November 2, 1930, I became the Emperor of Ethiopia. Several years prior, Jamaican activist Marcus Garvey had foretold the ascension of a influential black monarch in Africa whose mission would be to champion black freedom.

The Rastafari movement takes its name from Selassie's original name, Ras Tafari Makonnen. "Ras" means "prince" in Amharic, which is spoken in Ethiopia. Most believers saw Selassie as the second coming of Jesus Christ . Much of the Rastafarian faith is based on the Bible. Referencing the New Testament book of Revelation, Rastafarians await their return to Zion, the symbolic name for Africa used in the Bible. Tenets of the religion include living a life as close to nature as possible, and espousing the principles of love and peace, justice, unity and equality.

Rastafarianism stands against various types of political, cultural, and religious oppression experienced by individuals and has become a global movement with adherents from different ethnicities. Currently, it is believed that between 700,000 to one million people follow this faith.

Despite common misconceptions, using marijuana is not inherently linked to the Rastafarian faith, even though numerous adherents view it as a means for enhancing awareness.

Bob Marley: The ambassador of reggae

Bob Marley, recognized as the first global icon hailing from one of the so-called developing nations, played a crucial role in spreading reggae—the musical expression of the Rastafari movement—to audiences worldwide.

Reggae emerged in Jamaica during the 1960s. This genre’s emphasis on social issues and connections to Rastafarian spirituality echoed similar sentiments found in various global folk styles of the era, including folk rock in the United States. Drawing influences from earlier musical forms such as mento, ska, soul, and rocksteady, reggae developed into a distinctive sound.

Actually, when Bob Marley and the Wailers When they joined forces in 1963, they first played ska and dancehall music. However, they later shifted their focus to reggae, and in 1973, they distributed their album "Catch a Fire" globally.

The upbeat rhythm guitar combined with the entrancing bass lines proved perfect for conveying uplifting messages of peace and love. When Eric Clapton In 1974, when they covered "I Shot the Sheriff," Bob Marley and the Wailers found themselves thrust into the global limelight.

Songs of resistance

Bob Marley’s music often explores Rastafarian beliefs, yet his verses also highlight the daily challenges faced by marginalized communities and recount the historical injustices of slavery. Consequently, numerous tracks have come to symbolize defiance and the global struggle against tyranny.

After visiting Haiti, where he witnessed the impoverished conditions of the locals, Bob Marley wrote 'Get Up, Stand Up.' Duvalier dictatorship (1957-1986). The song urges individuals to stand up for their rights and rely on their personal judgement. "Get Up, Stand Up" serves as an unofficial anthem for the organization Amnesty International.

In his 1979 track titled "Zimbabwe," Marley urges Africans to free the nation from British colonialism. He performed this song during Zimbabwe’s independence festivities in 1980, making it serve as an informal national anthem for the newly freed country.

Marley's legacy: 'Redemption Song'

One of Bob Marley’s most renowned tracks, “Redemption Song,” marked a significant shift in style compared to much of his earlier work, prompting many to speculate whether he sensed it might be his final release before passing away—a potential valedictory missive to humanity. The lyrics include a quote from the Rastafarian leader Marcus Garvey, who stated during a 1937 address: "None but ourselves can free our minds; emancipate yourselves from mental enslavement."

Indeed, Marley and his enduring influence persistently offer inspiration to individuals across the globe.

This is a revised edition of the article that was initially published in German back in February 2024.

Author: Silke Wünsch