Bob Marley (1945 – 1981) was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and one of the most influential figures in reggae music. His fusion of reggae, ska, and rocksteady, combined with spiritual and political messages, made him a global icon.
Born in Nine Mile, Jamaica, he formed The Wailers in 1963 with Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. Their early hits, including One Love, brought international attention. After signing with Island Records, the group evolved into Bob Marley and the Wailers, producing iconic albums like Catch a Fire (1973) and Exodus (1977). He survived a politically motivated assassination attempt in 1976 and later relocated to London.
Diagnosed with cancer in 1977, he continued to record and tour. His final album, Uprising (1980), featured Redemption Song, one of his most profound works. He died in 1981 at age 36. His posthumous album Legend (1984) became the best-selling reggae album ever. Marley remains a cultural symbol of Jamaican music, Rastafarianism, and Pan-African unity.