Bob Marley, one of the first international pop stars hailing from the 3rd world, continues to inspire and generate listeners decades after his time on Earth was tragically cut short. Without him, the musical landscape of North America would be a very different place, and without him, many (white) people might never have known the joy of reggae music. He is truly one of my all-time favourite artists, and though I rarely listen to reggae anymore, he was a huge influence for me when I first started playing the guitar. Though the true legacy of Bob’s message of peace and unity against all oppressors has been needlessly and reprehensibly diluted to a vague message of pro-legalization (seriously, read up on it), the music will never go away.

Here are a couple Bob Marley songs that are particular favourites of mine. Go ahead, give them a listen. Relax, mon, and remember to give thanks and praise to one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century.

And here’s an amazing interview from 1979.