On this day, we commemorate the 42nd death anniversary of the reggae icon, Bob Marley, who left us on May 11, 1981. With a career spanning over two decades, Marley became an international symbol of peace, love, and unity, inspiring millions of people around the world. As a tribute to the legend, we’ve curated a collection of rare and intimate photos that provide a glimpse into the life of the charismatic artist who changed the face of music.
The images in this article, some of which have never been seen before, reveal different facets of Bob Marley’s life, from his musical journey to his personal moments, offering fans a chance to connect with the man behind the legend.
- The Early Years: The Wailers The first photo takes us back to the early years of Bob Marley’s career when he, along with Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer, formed the original Wailers. This rare image shows the young musicians in their humble beginnings, unaware of the global impact they would eventually make with their music.
- A Family Man: Marley and his Children The second photo showcases a tender moment between Marley and his children, revealing the loving father behind the public figure. With a total of eleven acknowledged children, Marley often referred to his family as his “greatest riches.”
- Bob Marley and the I-Threes .This image captures Bob Marley on stage with the I-Threes, the female vocal trio comprising of Judy Mowatt, Marcia Griffiths, and Rita Marley, who provided the harmonies for many of Marley’s iconic songs. The photo highlights the strong connection between the performers, who played a crucial role in Marley’s career.
- Backstage Bonding: Bob Marley, Mick Jagger, and Peter Tosh This rare photo captures Bob Marley, Mick Jagger, and Peter Tosh sharing a moment backstage at a Rolling Stones concert at the Palladium in New York on June 19, 1978. The image highlights the camaraderie and mutual admiration that existed between these legendary musicians, transcending genres and bridging the gap between different musical worlds.
- Bob Marley and the United Nations Peace Medal Bob Marley’s activism and message of unity earned him the United Nations Peace Medal in 1978. This image captures the proud moment when Marley received the prestigious award, reflecting his influence as a global ambassador for peace.
- Marley’s Final Show The last photo in our collection documents Marley’s final performance in Pittsburgh on September 23, 1980, just months before his untimely death. The image encapsulates the energy and passion that Marley poured into every performance, leaving a lasting impact on all who witnessed his shows.
As we remember Bob Marley on this day, these rare photos serve as a reminder of the man who transcended his humble beginnings to become a beacon of hope, love, and unity for generations to come. His music and message will continue to inspire us, as we carry on his legacy of One Love.