Ziggy Pens Heartfelt Letter to Reggae Icon Bob Marley on His 79th Birthday -

Ziggy Pens Heartfelt Letter to Reggae Icon Bob Marley on His 79th Birthday: It’s been nearly four decades since the world bid farewell to the legendary reggae pioneer, Bob Marley. This Tuesday would have marked his 79th birthday, and while the iconic artist may no longer grace this earthly realm, his profound impact on music and culture lives on. In this exclusive piece, we delve into the heartfelt letter penned by Marley’s eldest son, Ziggy Marley, as he reflects on the enduring legacy of his father.

A Lasting Legacy

Bob Marley’s influence extends far beyond his prolific music catalog. Beyond the beats and rhythms, Marley left behind a legacy of love and unity that transcends generations. Ziggy Marley, himself a celebrated musician and eight-time Grammy winner, stands as a testament to the continuation of this legacy.

Family Commitment to Preserving Marley’s Memory

In the realm of preserving Marley’s memory, Ziggy, alongside his mother Rita and sister Cedella, takes on the role of producer for the upcoming biopic, “Bob Marley: One Love.” The film, starring British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir as the late reggae star, promises to unveil unseen facets of Marley’s life. Ziggy remarks, “There’s a lot of sides [to him] that people don’t really know,” hinting at a deeper understanding the audience will gain through “One Love.”

Unveiling the Unseen Facets

As Ziggy Marley reflects on his father, he unveils the playful side of the reggae icon, a side often overshadowed by his musical prowess. In an exclusive essay for PEOPLE magazine, Ziggy recalls his father’s spirituality and discipline, emphasizing the profound impact these traits continue to have on the Marley family. “There’s moments where we’re like, ‘Yeah, that’s just like Daddy,’” Ziggy shares. “You would laugh, but one of those proud laughs.”

The Emotional Journey with “One Love”

The biopic, “Bob Marley: One Love,” takes viewers on an emotional journey, bringing out a side of the reggae legend rarely seen by the public. Kingsley Ben-Adir’s portrayal evokes strong emotions, connecting the audience with Marley’s essence. Ziggy Marley acknowledges the power of the film, expressing, “There’s moments where we’re like, ‘Yeah, that’s just like Daddy.’ You would laugh, but one of those proud laughs.”

In Remembrance of a Young Legend

In his heartfelt letter to his late father, Ziggy Marley expresses profound admiration for Bob’s discipline and dedication to the art of music. Despite his youth, Bob Marley achieved more than many could aspire to. Ziggy acknowledges the inspiration derived from his father’s commitment, setting the stage for his own musical journey.

The Inspirational Discipline

Ziggy writes, “I admired your discipline. I got that from you and the seriousness that you took with the music, the art. It was really inspiring.” This insight into Bob Marley’s work ethic and commitment provides a unique perspective, showcasing the reggae icon not just as a musical genius but as a mentor and role model to his family.

Bob Marley’s Son Ziggy Pens Sweet Letter to the Reggae Star on What Would Have Been His 79th Birthday (Exclusive)

It’s been nearly 43 years since the world lost reggae pioneer Bob Marley, and on Tuesday, he would have celebrated his 79th birthday.

Though Marley died young, he left behind a lasting legacy that includes not only his prolific music catalog, but a family dedicated to preserving his memory and carrying on his message of love and unity.

Marley’s eldest son Ziggy, 55, is a musician like his father, and an eight-time Grammy winner to boot. Ziggy and his mother, Rita, and sister Cedella are all producers on the new film Bob Marley: One Love, a biopic starring British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir as the late star. “There’s a lot of sides [to him] that people don’t really know,” Ziggy says of his father. “They will see those sides [in One Love] and they will connect with those sides.”

In an essay for PEOPLE published in this week’s issue, Ziggy remembers his dad as a playful presence whose spirituality and discipline inspires his family to this day.

What’s happening? Long time no see.

I miss everything [about you], but mainly your presence. I listen to you. Your songs are always playing—when I go to my mother [Rita’s] house, music is on. Bob is on. Music is always around.

You were so young, but you did more than me could ever do. And the movie is another way for you to give even more. Kingsley brings out a strong emotional side of you that people don’t normally see. There’s moments where we’re like, “Yeah, that’s just like Daddy.” You would laugh, but one of those proud laughs.

I admired your discipline. I got that from you and the seriousness that you took with the music, the art. It was really inspiring.

We’re spiritual people— everything we do is a part of the whole. It’s like we’re a part of you, and you’re a part of us. It’s one. We speak with our love, and it’s not words. We don’t have to talk much—we can just feel.

My smile is honoring you. I laugh, and it looks like your laugh. Pieces of you are a part of me. You would’ve loved being a grandpa [Ziggy is a dad to seven children]. I see a little bit of something of you [in them] every now and again. It’s lovely to see. It’s joyful. The grandkids

Conclusion

As we commemorate what would have been Bob Marley’s 79th birthday, Ziggy Marley’s heartfelt letter serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of the reggae legend. Through the upcoming biopic “One Love,” the world will witness a more intimate portrayal of Marley’s life. The Marley family’s commitment to preserving his memory ensures that the legacy of love, unity, and musical excellence lives on.