Rastafarian singer Nana EQ, who gave Rita Marley a whopping New Year’s blessing, is recognizing Bob Marley for his exceptional contribution to reggae music not only in Jamaica but worldwide.

On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, the world was celebrating Bob Marley as the greatest reggae artiste. The Reggae King was born on February 6, 1945, and died on May 11, 1981. He would have been 79 years old.

Born Robert Nesta Marley, Nine Mile, St. Ann, to parents Norval Marley and Cedella Booker, Bob spent much of his early life in Trench Town, Kingston where he later formed the group The Wailers ( Bob, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer). The break up of the group in 1974 led to Bob being backed by the I-Threes (Rita Marley, Marcia Griffiths, and Judy Mowatt).

According to Nana EQ, who was part of the Nyabinghi assemble that performed at the premiere of the Bob Marley One Love movie, “Bob Marley is the greatest legend Jamaica has ever produced. He has performed on shows with superstars like the Beatles. Not surprisingly, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His album ‘Legend’ (1984) was named Best Selling Album of all Time and Rolling Stone ranked him number 11 on the list of 200 greatest artistes of all time. He had received the Order of Merit in Jamaica, and was inducted into the Black Music and Entertainment Walk of Fame.”

“His love songs have been promoting Jamaca’s brand over the years, notably ‘One Love’ used by the Jamaica Tourist Board. Several artistes have covered his hits and kept his name ringing.”

“Bob was a wholesome entertainer who did not discriminate against those who were considered below his status. One could sit and reason with Bob on the corners of Trench Town and be refreshed by his ideas of life. He (Bob Marley) loved children, which is quite evident with children featured in a number of his music videos. He rightly wanted to show the world that we should protect our children as they will grow to become our future leaders.”

“His son Ziggy Marley and others such as Damian and Ky-Mani are carrying on his legacy. It is the Marleys, more than any other family, who has won so many Grammy awards throughout the years.”

“The celebrations now happening in Reggae Month underscore the need for more Reggae stars like Bob Marley.”

“Even though he has not been conferred National Hero status in Jamaica, nevertheless his music has impacted the world.”

“It is through Bob’s dynamism that I covered his song ‘Who Colt The Game’, which Rita Marley has also done. I do know that the celebrations will continue as his One Love movie will be on everyone’s lips for many, many years to come.”

(Photo contributed)