S2.Ep-14 Bob Marley His Life & Legacy

Join Black history educator Brittany Wilkins as she delves into the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of the iconic reggae legend, Bob Marley. In this captivating episode of "The Coin: Black History on the Other Side," Brittany intricately weaves together the narrative of Bob Marley's meteoric rise to fame, exploring the profound hardships he encountered along his journey. Discover the untold stories behind the man who transcended musical boundaries and became a symbol of unity and revolution. Tune in as Brittany sheds light on Bob's final words imparted to his sons, offering a glimpse into the wisdom and depth of his soul. Don't miss this exclusive exploration of Bob Marley's life and legacy, where listeners uncover a different perspective of Black history that's often overlooked.

Transcript

Episode Title: Bob Marley His Life and Legacy

Opening Show Quote:

Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds!

 Introduction:

Welcome to season 2 of The Coin: Black History on the Other Side hosted by your favorite black history educator Brittany Wilkins. On February 14, 2024 Paramount Pictures released the  music biopic Bob Marley One Love generating over 100 million worldwide.  Who is this man? Bob Marley was a prophet of light who utilized his music as ministry to spread a message of love, unity, and peace unifying people all across the world. At the pinnacle of his career, he would depart from the world, but his spirit continues to live on decades later having tremendous impact  on generations. In todays show we discuss Bob Marley life and legacy. 

 Bob Marley Upbringing:

Robert Nesta Marley was born February 6, 1945 in Nine Mile Jamaica to the parents of Cedalla Malcolm and Captain Norval Marley, but was primarily raised by his mother. At the age of five Bob and his mother would relocate to Kingston. His father Captain Norval Marley was a British colonial officer. Very little is known about the relationship between Bob and his father. I found it interesting from one source allegedly Norval reconnected with Cedalla with the intention to take custody of his son. Cedella agreed and was under the impression Marley's family would take care of her son, but it later became known his father left him with a stranger. After a year of searching for her son Bob was reunited with his mother and returned to nine mile.  Cedalla was tempted to move back to the city. At the age of 12 Bob and mother moved back to Kingston, settling in Trenchtown. 

In his adolescence years Bob was described as an introvert, who was very shy. This did not deter him from finding his tribe forming friendships with Allan Cole and Neville Livingston also known as Bunny and Peter Tosh. Growing as young men developing their love for sports and music. These men would embark on a journey stepping into the musical scene as the Wailers releasing their first single simmer down, which was a hit making the band an instant sensation. Releasing hit after hit becoming one of the top bands in Jamaica. Even with their rise to fame, the wailers did not reap the monetary benefits of their talents, as Coxsone Dodd head of Studio One was not an honest nor fair businessman. 

 Continuing the dream:

Determined to continue his dream Marley migrated to the United States relocating to Delaware where he found a job working in auto plant and hotel. His goal was to raise money to fund the wailers and more importantly own the rights to his music.  In returning to Jamaica he started his own label releasing the first single Bend Down Low. Just like that the wailers were back on top. Rising to the top only to hit bottom when bandmate Bunny was convicted of Marijuana possession and handed a fourteen month sentence.

Attempting to make up for loss time, the wailers sought to seek out a new sound in an effort to adapt to the evolving Jamaican music scene.  In the early days the wailers were inspired by American R&B groups like the drifters and impressions. With a new sound came the evolution of their brand and image. Producer Lee Scratch Perry introduced the band to a new rhythm. No matter what style or sound Bob and Wailer continued to achieved success in the music business. 

 Bob Marley Influence:

 Much of Marley's success could be attributed to him becoming a master of his craft. According to Bunny the singer would have about 10-15 songs he would be writing at one time. His work ethic showed as fans witnessed his musical genius wit hit songs like GET UP STAND UP, I  Shot the Sheriff, No Woman No Cry, Redemption Song, Could you Be Loved, Buffalo Solider. These songs were not just a vibe. Listen closely embedded in these songs were deep messages tied to history. Music has a way of influencing and shaping one perceptions. Bob not only wanted ppl to dance to the music, but hear the message, and act on the message. In Barnes and Nobles I bought a special edition Bob Marly CD. I uncovered an underrated song titled Top Rankin. A song that delves into themes of unity, love, resistance against oppressive forces. Listening to the lyrics its not surprise why its not as popular as some of his other hits. 

Marley utilized his music as a vessel in bridging the gap for people of his country to be united. With unity comes opposition as an unsuccessful assasation attempt resulted in Bob, his wife Rita, and manager being shot at his home on December 3, 1976.This did not stop the King of Reggae as he continued on his mission to inspire those through his music touring across the world. Ultimately he would be faced with  another dire circumstance. He was diagnosed with Cancer in New York in 1980. Doctors had given Bob weeks to lived, but he hung on for another eight months.  Bob refused to have his toe amputated, but resorted to other methods.  On May 11 1981 Robert Nesta Marley died at the age of 36. His parting words to his sons Stephan and Ziggy were Money can't buy life. On the way up bring me up, and on the way down, don’t let me down. His legacy continues to live on through his children and the millions of people he influenced throughout the world. 

 Conclusion:

My father had gifted me Bob Marley and the Wailers live at Rainbow DVD. Bonus material on the DVD includes stories of those closest to him. Marcia Griffiths part of the group I-THREES song back up for Bob. In her own words she said Bob was sent by the creator of God to do this work taking the message through the medium of music to the four corners of the world. Traveling the world with Bob to countries like Sweden and Japan she was witness to how much of an impact he had people seeing thousands of people in the crowd feeling the music. She coming to the stage in Sweden and seeing paraplegic people  seated in the front. To see Bob reached some different people while  he  performed with such conviction. Rita Marley stated His message and his music stood out speaking for the less privilege as he understood the struggle enduring hardships growing up in Trenchtown. To Rita her husband was Great man, father, lover, and friend. 

We all have a ministry. Whatever yours may be I encourage you to share in love, unity, and peace. God Bless!