Bob Marley: His Musical Legacy

He was Jamaica’s most beloved musical hero—and now Bob Marley’s fascinating story unfolds as never before, through songs and in lavish images.

This must-have volume for every fan is published to coincide with the 60th anniversary of Marley’s birth and the major CD release of his entire body of work with the Wailers.

In 1977, Bob Marley’s groundbreaking album Exodus earned him worldwide fame and adulation. By that time, he already had many years of experience…and his music had undergone countless shifts. Yet most listeners’ perception of Marley’s work comes only from the brief period between Exodus and his untimely death just four years later, at only 36 years old. This richly illustrated volume—filled with rare photos and insightful musical analysis—is the first-ever attempt to cover his career through the entire range of his recordings and key live performances. It follows his progression from unknown Trenchtown Rasta to international reggae superstar, and encompasses the rock, “rebel,” and pop periods that have never quite fitted in with Marley’s legend. Special features focus on the specifically Caribbean influences that shaped Marley and his music, including contemporary politics, religion, culture, fashion, and sport.  A complete discography and buyer’s guide to Marley’s releases, as well as a discussion of the role Rita Marley played in his music, round out an intimate, revealing portrait of this uniquely talented man and unforgettable performer.

Jeremy Collingwood has spent the past two decades researching Bob Marley’s career, particularly the Jamaican years. He has produced a series of CDs that document the period 1967–1972 and served as researcher on several TV programs about the musician.