Bob Marley

May 11 marks the thirtieth anniversary of the death of Bob Marley.  If you think his death was just another unfortunate end to a musician, you would be wrong.  Bob Marley was revolutionary in his music and his message.  He used his art to inspire millions of people in developed and developing countries to look for peace and acceptance.  He hoped to inspire people to stand up for themselves, their rights and the rights of others. 

Bob Marley was born Robert Nesta Marley in a poor village in Jamaica.  His father was a white Jamaican-born, British national and his mother was a black Jamaican.  His mixed ethic background led to considerable ridicule and abuse during Marley’s childhood.  His father left the family when he was young having little contact with his son. 

Bob soon found acceptance through music.  While living in Trench Town, a poverty stricken part of Kingston, he met his childhood and musical friends, Bunny Livingston and Peter McIntosh (later known as Peter Tosh).   Together they would explore the music of reggae and ska.  The three would form a group called the Wailing Wailers and released their first record in 1964.  They gained extensive notoriety throughout Jamaica, but it would be another 11 years until their music was widely played in England and 12 years until they would have their first American hit. 

During this time, Bob’s music and message took on a more spiritual and political nature.  Exploring the religion of Rastafarian, Marley reached the hearts and minds of millions of Third World citizens.  Their first American hit “War” was based on a speech by Ethiopian leader Halle Selassie.  His controversial political views and his continued support of the Peoples Nation Party in Jamaica led to an assassination attempt in 1976.  Bob was shot twice, once in the sternum and once in the bicep.  While not being mortally wounded, Bob refused to allow the sustained injuries to prevent him from playing the scheduled show days later.

1977 proved to be a significant year in his life.  First, he and his band released the album Exodus.  The album was such a huge success its singles stayed on the charts for the next three tears.  Songs including “Waiting in Vain”, “Exodus”, and “Jammin’” make this one of the best albums ever released.  In addition, 1977 included the discovery of cancerous cells in his toes.  While his religious belief prevented him from current medical procedures, he found some relief through natural remedies.

He was able to continue to create and inspire for another four year until in 1981 the cancer spread throughout his body.  His funeral was attended by over 30,000 people in Jamaica.  Before his death he was awarded the Order of Merit from the Jamaican government and the Medal of Peace from the United Nations in 1980. 

His music still inspires people today.  His message of peace, unity and strength are as relevant today as they were 30+ years ago.  He is revered in his homeland and in many African nations.

 

Do you or have you ever listened to Bob Marley’s music?  If so, do you like it?  Do you think music can change the world?  Why or why not?  What music do you listen to and why?  Are there any artists today trying to change the world through their craft?  Who and how?

Death of Osama bin Laden

On Sunday evening around 8:45 pm, our regular scheduled television shows were interrupted with breaking news.  The news would inspire patriotism, relief, anxiety, and trepidation across the United States and the world.  The news:  Osama bin Laden is dead.

It has been close to 10 years since the bin Laden became a popular terrorist icon and known across the country as the face and mind behind the elusive and deadly terrorist organization “al-Qaida”.  Even though he created this organization in 1988, it would not be until 2001 when he and his cohorts become a household name.  The fateful day in September would forever change Americans and our sense of security in the world. 

News of his death spread quickly on Sunday evening.  Hours before President Obama addressed the nation, people from coast to coast were spreading the news through social media.  ESPN and other news affiliates were able to capture the looks of joy and relief on the faces of those attending the Phillies/Mets baseball game.  The crowd went as far to begin chanting “U-S-A”.  In other cities, people gathered at capitol buildings, statehouses, and other public forums to celebrate the triumph of freedom and the demise of terrorism. 

In the days since we have become increasingly aware of the details behind the mission.  We have been made aware of the use of SEAL Team Six and their need for anonymity.  We have learned about the proper Muslim burial bin Laden was granted.  We have learned of the existence of pictures of the event, which will not be released.  We have learned that although the leader of this feared terrorist organization is dead, we are still not completely secure.  Security at airports, military instillations, and other public and government building are on heightened security.

What do you think about the death of Osama bin Laden?  How will this impact the United States and Homeland Security?  Although you were very young on September 11, how do you think this event will impact the lives of those directly involved and victimized by the 9/11 terrorist attack?