Share

Fans mark Bob Marley's birthday in Jamaica

Kingston, Jamaica - Hundreds of tourists have joined Rastafarian priests and reggae musicians at Bob Marley's old house in Jamaica to mark the 68th anniversary of the late reggae icon's birth.

Since his death from cancer in 1981, Marley has become more than just Jamaica's most famous musical export. Marley's message of unity and respect remains a beacon of hope in this Caribbean nation struggling with joblessness and violence.

On Wednesday, some of Marley's relatives and old friends danced and chanted to the pounding of drums in the yard of his Kingston home, which is now a museum.

Culture Minister Lisa Hanna said his lyrics still call for Jamaicans to create a "more wholesome, caring, peaceful and progressive society."

Marley's popularity remains strong across the globe, and his music continues to sell steadily.

bob marley
A mural depicting reggae music icon Bob Marley and former Ethiopia's Emperor Haile Selassie decorate a wall in the yard of Marley's Kingston home, in Jamaica. (David McFadden, AP)

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE