Today would be the 65th birthday of Jamaican-born reggae legend, humanitarian, and Rastafarian* revolutionary Bob Marley. (*Rastafarianism is a Caribbean form of Christianity.) Members of Marley's family and fans will gather Saturday, Feb. 6 (today, of course) at L.A. art gallery Mr. Musichead for the first annual Jammin' and Wailin' event, where rare artwork and photography featuring Marley, as well as Bob Marley coffee, will be on sale. Proceeds from the event will benefit Doctors Without Borders' efforts in Haiti.
On a personal note, Marley is one of my all-time favorite artists. I've been a fan of his for almost a decade, and his Legend CD is played frequently in my home and car. (I actually had to buy a second copy, because I wore the first one out!) His beautiful, island-inspired music, especially songs like "Is This Love," "Three Little Birds," and "Stir It Up," really brightens up these cold, dreary winter days. And, his socially conscious fare, particularly "I Shot the Sheriff," "Redemption Song," "Exodus," "Get Up, Stand Up" and "Buffalo Soldier," simultaneously entertains and challenges you. "Jamming" is likewise both fun and intellectual. Marley occasionally gets playful and romantic, as is the case on "Could You Be Loved," "Satisfy My Soul," and "Waiting in Vain." In addition, "No Woman, No Cry" is one of the greatest songs ever written and recorded. Finally, who doesn't love "One Love/People Get Ready"-- the official reggae national anthem and a powerful call for universal goodwill?! I'm certain that, wherever he is, Mr. Marley is deeply pleased that his message is being used to provide liberation through physical aid and spiritual hope to Haiti's survivors.
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