Reggae Month is February in Jamaica and Bob Marley’s birthday February 6 is Bob Marley Day. During the month many events honor the life and legacy of Bob Marley.
Unieros Bob Marley Day video highlights
Bob Marley Day in Kingston
On Bob Marley Day 2023, the Jamaican Ministry of Culture, Gender, and Sports, held a Musical Tribute concert in Emancipation Park. Julian Marley, the second youngest of Marley’s 12 children, performed at the free event. Also, known Jamaican reggae artists Marcia Griffith, Giptian, Capelton, Etana and Max Romeo were among the lead performers. Each artist sang one Bob Marley songs, including: “Who the Cap Fits”, “Small Axe”, “Rastaman Vibration”, “Redemption Song”, and “One Love” song performed by Julian Marley, Damian Marley, and Stephen Marley closed the concert.
The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston opened its doors for an all-day free public event for Marley’s birthday. The day included vendors, performers, and activities for children to learn about the life of Marley at this home at 56 Hope Road in Kingston.
Roots reggae music
Uplifting messages are at the heart of roots reggae music. If you listen carefully to the roots of reggae music lyrics, you will understand that the music is about love, peace, justice, and calling human beings to a higher consciousness life experience.
Roots reggae music is deeply connected to Rastari culture. Rastafarians believed Haile Selassie, Emperor of Ethiopia (1934-1974) was the messiah for people of African descent. Rastas honor Selassie as a warrior and defender of heritage against oppressive systems known as Babylon. In songs like “Soul Rebel”, Marley’s message is one of individual will to pursue his happiness through life adventures. “I’m a living man and I got work to do.”
Timeless messages
Although Marley’s songs were written decades ago their meaning still remains relevant today. His songs inspired countless roots reggae musicians to sing uplifting anthems about the pursuit of freedom, defense against enemies, and fight against injustice.
Music celebrates life. Bob Marley’s inspiring music is a staple of Jamaican life and heritage. His work is far-reaching beyond Jamaica to reach people across every nation in the world. Reggae music is a celebration of life as we know it and the ideals we desire love and unity.