Bob Marley is a paradox — part “Is This Love” and part “Buffalo Soldier.” He is the poster boy and evangelist for reggae music, viewed through a commodified 21st-century lens that sanitizes the truly radical nature of his music and legacy. Although less discussed among much of Marley’s contemporary worldwide fanbase, the...
As a Jamaican, Bob Marley and other cultural musician were instrumental in bringing to for front issues of slavery and injustices within the country. Other artist such as Buju Banton kept that up with his music. His messages were silenced some what when he was arrested and charged in America. America is always seeking to destroy us black people, which it did when backed JLP party. This party created so much fighting and killing in Jamaica it is unbelievable. When the commercialized reggae music they destroyed its base making it a profit when it was not about profit but rather empowerment. They also pushed for the dancehall music which destroyed us as a people which was just to exploit us. It is sad and a change needs to occur.
Very important points and an interesting perspective, thank you!
Also I was remiss in not mentioning Buju in this piece – his story is a big part of the conversation.