Music is compelling, and many musicians have used it powerfully to impact and change generations of listeners. There is just something so soulful when a beautiful beat and tune is matched by the lyrics of a singer that means what he sings. One person, in particular, has lived by the purpose of his songs and impacted the world with his message through his beautiful music, and that is none other than Bob Marley.
While this singer and musician is sadly no longer with us, his name lives on through his songs. He has always promoted peace and justice, and he wanted to spread the message to the world. He has influenced and inspired millions of people around the world with his message, and today we share how one man impacted the world with his music.
He mainstreamed reggae music
Bob Marley was a member of the Rastafari movement, whose culture influenced the formation of reggae. He became a fervent supporter of Rastafari, bringing the music out of Jamaica’s impoverished communities and onto the international music scene.
What started as a niche and unheard-of genre slowly took mainstream success as he pioneered bold beats and artful melodies. He never pandered to the popular culture, staying true to his Rastafari roots and reggae influences. While taking influences where he could, Bob Marley pushed the boundaries of his music to create something new, equally bold as it is true to his background as a musician.
“Smile Jamaica”
During a period of significant political instability in Jamaica, Bob Marley leveraged his popularity to bring attention to the country’s problems while spreading a message of love and peace. In Kingston, there was violence everywhere you looked. A civil war was being fought between Michael Manley’s supporters or the People’s National Party and their rivals, led by Edward Seaga, the Jamaica Labour Party.
Some People’s National Party members pressed Marley to play a free outdoor concert called “Smile Jamaica” to reduce tensions between the warring political groups and calm the city until the election. Marley received threats, but he never backed down. But two days before he was scheduled to perform at the said concert, Marley was attempted to be assassinated by an unknown gunman. Luckily, his wounds were not critical, and he still went on to perform at the concert. Despite his state and the risks, he still spread his message by playing in front of 80,000 people, unafraid and proud – all because he loved his nation beyond words could say.
One Love Peace Concert
The One Love Peace Concert, or ‘Third World Woodstock,’ took place in front of 32,000 people on April 22, 1978, in Kingston’s National Stadium. He impulsively called the Prime Minister, Michael Manley, and opposing leader Edward Seaga to join him onstage. Between the two stunned leaders, Marley took the stage. He drew them closer with his hands on their shoulders, and they were seen shaking hands for the first time.
In the grand scheme of things, nothing changed after this. Jamaica was still surrounded by political violence, and an air of unfairness still bubbled in the country. However, during that night of the One Love Peace Concert, Marley lighted a spark of hope for the people – proving that violence is not the solution to the country’s problems but unity. A seed we all hope would pave greater unity and peace in the country decades on.
Conclusion
Bob Marley was not only a legendary musical artist, but he was also a man with pure intentions who leveraged his popularity to give a voice to the unheard. His efforts did not waste, and he was awarded the United Nations Peace Medal of the Third World. Despite his passing in 1981, his music and message continue to influence and inspire many people.
If you want to learn how to integrate a message into music like Bob Marley, you may want to consider picking up an instrument or going for singing lessons first. Age is not a factor when it comes to doing something we love and learning a new instrument. At Studio72, our expert instructors can help you get on your feet on your journey. We are sure to help you go through the best vocal lessons in Singapore and get started on your musical journey, so don’t hesitate to drop us a message today!
