After taking time to analyze a few of Mr. Marley's songs in class the other day, I realize that Bob Marley is not just a reggae music icon or a marijuana advocate, but a religious figure as well.
When talking about reggae music, it is very difficult to not mention Bob Marley's name. He was the pioneer for bringing reggae to America, and a worldwide audience also. He had a number of greatest hits during (and after) his lifetime. (Album "Legend" went platnum, after his death!)
Most Americans know about Marley's musical career and his marijuana use. For Rastafarians, the marijuana is sacred sacrament (like a Native American peace-pipe), it is a part of their religion. But a lot of people associate Marley with only a recreational usesage (non-spiritual). Many people feel that was all he did, but after class on Friday I realize that he is much more than that.
After going through some of his songs, we can tell there are religious roots in the songs, the album art and the clothes worn at performances. Bob Marley's lyrics tell about the struggle his people had with being oppressed and moving to Ethiopia (example from "Exodus"). He would also use biblical references for activism. Marley and his style of music was a big part of the Rastafarian movement.
Marley isn't just a pot-smoking reggae musician, but a Rastafarian as well. His religious views and motivation for activism show in his songs. His music and lyrics "moved" (emotionally and physically) the people that listened.
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