In an evocative recount on CNN, Ziggy Marley, the eldest progeny of the legendary reggae maestro Bob Marley and his wife Rita, reminisced about a poignant journey to Zimbabwe in 1980, a trip he holds dear as one of his most memorable moments with his father. This visit wasn’t just a travel experience but a seminal moment in history, coinciding with Zimbabwe’s monumental leap into independence from British colonial rule. Bob Marley’s self-financed trip, including his equipment and band members, such as sons Ziggy and Stephen, was not just a musical tour but a heartfelt contribution to the celebration of Zimbabwe’s newly won freedom.
The concert, which took place in April 1980, saw Bob Marley perform in front of a massive crowd that included international dignitaries like the British Crown Prince Charles and the late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Approximately 40,000 attendees were mesmerized by Marley’s revolutionary tunes, including the anthem “Zimbabwe” from his 1979 album “Survival”. This song, released in solidarity with Zimbabwe’s protracted struggle for independence, became an integral part of the nation’s liberation narrative, alongside other revolutionary anthems like “Africa Unite”.
Marley’s influence on Zimbabwe’s liberation war was profound, with his music, especially songs like “Get Up Stand Up”, resonating deeply within the heart of the struggle, becoming anthems among the guerrilla fighters in the jungle. Ziggy’s recollection on CNN wasn’t just about the historical performance but also highlighted a deeply personal interaction that underscored the power of music as a form of resistance and inspiration. He narrated an unforgettable encounter at their hotel with armed guerrilla fighters who visited Bob Marley to express how his music had inspired them to continue their fight against colonial oppression.
This visit to Zimbabwe, Ziggy’s first time in Africa along with his brother Stephen, left an indelible mark on him, especially witnessing firsthand the impact of his father’s music on the freedom fighters. The guerrillas’ gift of guns and grenades to Bob Marley, as tokens of gratitude for his inspirational music, was a testament to the transcendent power of art in mobilizing for justice and freedom. It demonstrated to a young Ziggy the profound influence music could wield in galvanizing movements for change.
Bob Marley’s passing on May 11, 1981, a little over a year after his iconic performance in Zimbabwe, left behind a legacy that transcends music. He remains celebrated as a pan-Africanist, a musical legend, and a global icon whose influence on the world stage is unparalleled. His commitment to justice, freedom, and unity through his music continues to inspire generations across the globe. In recognition of his contributions, there have been discussions by the city council of Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital, about erecting a statue in Rufaro Stadium, one of the three African venues where Marley performed, as a tribute to his enduring legacy.
The release of the “Bob Marley: One Love” biopic on Valentine’s Day this year, which Ziggy Marley proudly produced, serves not just as a cinematic exploration of Marley’s journey to becoming the world’s most celebrated reggae artist. It also underscores his enduring legacy as a figure of resilience, love, and unity. With earnings already surpassing US$14 million, the biopic has garnered more financial success than that of British pop legend Elton John’s “Rocketman”, highlighting the continued relevance and adoration of Bob Marley’s life and music.
Bob Marley’s music and message, deeply rooted in the struggle for liberation and the pursuit of equality, continue to echo across the world, inspiring new generations. His visit to Zimbabwe in 1980, as recounted by Ziggy Marley, remains a testament to the enduring power of music as a force for good, capable of transcending boundaries, inspiring courage, and fostering unity in the face of adversity.
