Bob Marley - One Love / Tribute /

The members of the group have performed with world stars such as "The Mighty Diamonds," Dennis Brown, Rankin Roger, "The Beat," "Burning Spear," "Apache Indian," "Johnny 2 Bad," Errol Dunkley, George and Desmond Decker, "Musical Youth," and many others. Throughout the two-hour show, the audience will be treated to all of Bob Marley's greatest hits: "Is This Love," "No Woman No Cry," "Waiting in Vain," "Exodus," "I Shot The Sheriff," "Jamming," "Could You Be Loved," and, of course, "One Love."

Jamaicans first encountered reggae in the early 1960s. Ten years later, reggae was known worldwide, mainly due to Bob Marley's rapid popularity and the influence of a series of other legendary Jamaican musicians. The significance of reggae in history is evidenced by its inclusion in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2018.

Reggae emerged as a completely fresh addition to the world music scene in the 1960s and 70s. At the time the sound of reggae was very unique compared to other music genres, except for certain reggae precursors in related Jamaican styles. Additionally, politically and socially relevant themes became increasingly prominent in its lyrics. Reggae broke into the global music scene with its diverse blend - a genre formed naturally by fusing traditional Caribbean music with jazz, soul, and blues, while incorporating elements of African traditional music.

The development of reggae was significantly influenced by the Rastafarian religious movement, which preached the salvation of all black people in heaven from the imposed rule of the white people.

Next year, Bob Marley (birth name Robert Nesta "Bob" Marley) would have turned 80. He was born on February 6, 1945, in Nine Mile, Jamaica. Marley had a voice which he used for promoting culture and politics worldwide in favor of Jamaica.

Marley was a singer, songwriter, and musician. He was a rhythm guitarist and the lead vocalist for "The Wailers," which formed in 1963. It was with their debut album "The Wailing Wailers" (1965) that the later reggae anthem "One Love" was first heard (it gained its most famous rendition in the band's 1977 excellent album "Exodus," when it became widely known on every continent).

The breakthrough for him and for “The Wailers” came when they signed a contract with Island Records. In 1973, two albums were released under the label - "Catch a Fire" and "Burnin'." The latter became particularly significant because Bob Marley's song "I Shot The Sheriff" sold over 200,000 copies in England. Its global hit status was cemented by the legendary Eric Clapton.

Bob Marley and "The Wailers" released a total of 13 studio albums and several live recordings, but the all-time best-selling release was "Legend" (1984). This compilation of 14 of their brightest hits has sold over 25 million copies to date!

Bob Marley definitely would have wished to experience such global performances today, but an unfortunate health issue rapidly changed everything. In 1977, he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, which developed on his toe after a football injury. He was advised to amputate the toe, but Bob adamantly refused, a decision he later regretted. By 1980, the cancer had spread to his lungs, stomach, and brain. He tried to save his life by seeking treatment in Germany, but the cancer had become unstoppable.

Bob Marley's final performance took place on September 23, 1980, in Pittsburgh, USA. He passed away on May 11, 1981, at the age of only 36. In his native Jamaica, a national farewell to the great musician was held, with the Prime Minister delivering the main address. The funeral followed Ethiopian Orthodox and Rastafarian traditions. Alongside Bob Marley in the casket lay his beloved red Gibson Les Paul guitar and a Bible opened to Psalm 23. A memorial museum dedicated to the musician was established, which remains one of the most popular attractions in Kingston, Jamaica.

Recently, in cinemas in Latvia, the screening of the biographical drama "Bob Marley: One Love" has begun. It offers a deep insight into the life journey of the legendary musician, his message of love and unity, which inspires the whole world. The film was made in collaboration with the Marley family, and the lead role is portrayed by Kingsley Ben-Adir.