Don’t let them school you, or even try to fool you….

….Oh, no! We’ve got a mind of our own, So go to hell if what you‘re thinking is not right…. From “Could You Be Loved” by Bob Marley.

 

 

Most people recognize Bob Marley as a musical legend, possibly one of the most influential musicians of the last century. But as a new documentary on Marley’s life argues, his “role as a social and political prophet is both unique and unparalleled” in the history of music.

 

From “Trenchtown Rock” to “Redemption song,” from “Rebel Music” to “Africa Unite,” from “Zimbabwe” to “Positive Vibration,” Bob Marley managed to marry a feel-good rhythm with hard-hitting social justice lyrics. His lyrics call for justice for the oppressed and the poor, seeking peace and understanding across national, racial, political, and religious boundaries. He called upon Africans in all parts of the world to unite in love and brotherhood, to stop fighting. He reminded all of us that oppression comes from within. He told us to “emancipate ourselves from mental slavery”–to stop blaming others for our problems, but instead to examine ourselves and change what needs to be changed because “none but ourselves can free our minds.” Despite his own enormous wealth, he eschewed materialism, and claimed that, “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” He urged us to love life, to love others, to be our best selves and work for a better world.

 

 Marley: The Life, Music and Legacy of Bob Marley is available in theatres and streaming via facebook (see link below). The film a great way to introduce teenagers to Bob Marley’s life and music. Though it doesn’t wax philosophical about Marley’s ideas, it is arguably the most complete biographical depiction in film of the musician whose music just about everybody loves.

 

Marley: The Life, Music and Legacy of Bob Marley. Directed by Kevin MacDonald. 2012. Watch on Facebook Now. Also, the film’s trailer is available on youtube.