Bob Marley would’ve been 74 years old this February had he not passed away in 1981. Regardless, the Jamaican musician remains a hero to Rastas and stoners, pop music scholars and political activists, baby boomers, Gen Xers and millennials.
Active from the early 1960s up until his untimely death, Marley achieved such considerable international success that his name has become synonymous with the reggae genre. A testament to Marley’s cross-cultural, transgenerational appeal is the upcoming Bob Marley Day event at Seaworks in Williamstown.
Marking the 40th Anniversary of Bob Marley’s one and only Australian tour, the event will feature a headline performance from the Tuff Gong’s second youngest son, Ky-Mani Marley.
“I’ve performed in Australia before. I think it was back in 2011,” says Ky-Mani. “The tour was a wonderful experience and included Thailand, New Zealand and Vanuatu. It was my first time and I felt the warm embrace of the Australian fans. Looking forward to the return home feeling.”
Ky-Mani is an established solo artist who began his career with the 1996 release, Like Father Like Son. The extended Marley family includes a host of talented and successful musicians – Ziggy, Damian, Cedella and Sharon – all of whom inevitably get compared to their father.
“I am blessed and honoured to be compared or even mentioned connecting to my father’s work,” says Ky-Mani. “However, I love all sorts of music. When creating, inspiration comes from appreciation of all forms – urban, rock, Latino flavours all with the core of reggae.”
Ky-Mani’s released half a dozen solo LPs over the last 20 years, but he’s never been afraid to incorporate Bob Marley songs into his live shows. “Performing my father’s songs is part of my journey and a legacy I get to share with the audience,” he says. “His music through the years has been a source of empowerment, unity and love. These are all values I share.”
Love for Bob Marley continues to grow around the world as younger people get switched onto his music and inspired by the fighting spirit and message of resistance. It’s an impressive feat considering Marley and the Wailers’ international breakthrough, Catch A Fire, came out 45 years ago.
“I do not think that anyone could imagine the positive effects of his music,” says Ky-Mani. “But I am sure he would be happy, [he] probably is smiling seeing the younger generation embrace the positive vibes of his music.”
Ky-Mani has been familiar with the Bob Marley catalogue since a very young age. As time has moved forward and the world’s changed, he’s witnessed the songs defy natural weathering to take on even greater significance. Ky-Mani’s intimate knowledge of Marley’s catalogue has taught him a lot about the art of songwriting, as well as providing practical philosophical guidance.
“The main things I’ve learnt is that the words speak to all mankind. It’s always about togetherness. Most importantly the messages are as relevant today as when my father was alive. The songs make me feel stronger with my conviction of love over all.”
Although there is a distinct 1970s quality to Bob Marley’s music – it speaks to the specific political issues and struggles of that time – it’s attained a sort of timelessness. The spirit that pulsates from the music has lost none of its vigour, making Bob Marley Day a significant festive gathering.
“Performing at the upcoming celebration in Australia is going to be an honour,” he says. “Anytime I get to share my father’s music with fans and see their appreciation always gives me good feelings.”
Bob Marley Day goes down on Sunday January 27 at Seaworks, Williamstown from 1pm to 8pm. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.
