Facts of Bob Marley

Bob Marley is my favorite singer. You too will dance when you hear his song Bad Boys, or whistle when you hear Don't Worry Be Happy.

Right?

Right.

Let's check out some weird facts about our favorite rasta god.

Soccer passion

Bob Marley was an avid soccer fan and player. He was so passionate about the sport that he formed his own soccer team called "The Wailers" and would often organize matches against other Jamaican musical groups.

Birthday coincidence

Bob Marley was born on February 6, 1945, which is the same day as former U.S. President Ronald Reagan. It's quite an interesting coincidence that these two influential figures share the same birthday.

Marijuana evangelist

While it's widely known that Bob Marley was an advocate for the legalization of marijuana, he took his beliefs a step further. In 1976, Marley was invited to perform at the Smile Jamaica Concert, where he had an audience of around 80,000 people. Despite being advised not to, he lit a spliff on stage and smoked marijuana while performing, making a bold statement for the cause.

Football injury turned to music

When Bob Marley was just 17 years old, he worked as a machine operator in a factory. One day, he injured his right foot while playing soccer, and the injury never properly healed. This accident eventually led him to focus more on music and pursue a career in the industry.

Bulleted performance

On December 3, 1976, just two days before a planned free concert called "Smile Jamaica" intended to ease political tensions in Jamaica, Bob Marley and his wife, Rita, were injured in an assassination attempt. Unidentified gunmen stormed their home, shooting Marley, his wife, and his manager. Despite being injured, Marley went on to perform at the concert as scheduled, showing his commitment and dedication to his fans and the cause of peace.

Healing through music

In addition to his musical talents, Bob Marley was a believer in the healing power of music. He used music as a form of therapy, often encouraging his band members to play their instruments as a means of relaxation and release.

Rastafarian faith

Bob Marley's religious beliefs were deeply rooted in the Rastafarian faith. He followed its principles, which included a strict vegetarian diet, the belief in the divinity of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, and the sacramental use of marijuana as a spiritual herb.

Political and Social Activism

Marley was deeply involved in social and political issues, particularly those affecting the people of Jamaica and other oppressed groups. His music often carried messages of social justice and liberation.

Assassination Attempt

In 1976, Marley and his wife, Rita, were victims of an assassination attempt at their home in Kingston, Jamaica, just days before a planned concert. Despite the attack, Marley performed as scheduled.

Albums

Some of his most famous albums include "Catch a Fire," "Rastaman Vibration," "Exodus," and "Legend," which is a compilation album of his greatest hits.

Global Icon

Bob Marley's music and message transcended cultural and geographical boundaries. He became a symbol of peace and resistance, not just in Jamaica but around the world.

Tragic Death

Bob Marley passed away on May 11, 1981, at the age of 36, due to complications from melanoma, a form of skin cancer. His legacy, however, lives on through his music and the enduring impact he had on the world.

Posthumous Recognition

Bob Marley continues to be celebrated and honored through various awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001. His music remains influential, and he is remembered as one of the most iconic and significant musicians of the 20th century.

Family Legacy

Bob Marley had several children, some of whom followed in his musical footsteps. His son Ziggy Marley, in particular, has had a successful music career.

Bob Marley's music and message continue to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, and he remains a beloved and enduring figure in the world of music and culture.