HE was the first Jamaican artist to achieve international superstardom.

He left home at 14 to pursue a career in music at Kingston. He cut his first single. Judge Not in 1965, he formed a band. The Wailers, with other reggae singers Bunny Livingstone and Peter Mcintosh. The band become very successful following the first three hits, Simmer Down, Rule Them Rudie and it Hurts To Be Alone.

In Jamaica, Bob was viewed as a mystical poet and a prophet. People hung to every word he said. His power was however perceived as a treat in some quarters and an attempt was made to assassinate him during a concert in 1976. Despite receiving two gun shot wounds, he performed at the concert and then left Jamaica for the UK. His album Exodus, released in 1977, propelled him to international superstardom. He died of cancer in 1981 at the age of 36. His funeral was attended by hundred of people, including the Prime Minister of Jamaica. The government awarded him the Order or Merit and proclaimed his birthday as Bob Marlay Day.

Reggae started in the slums of Jamica in the 1960s as a form of entertainment for the poor natives. The lyrics of most reggae songs reflect social concerns such as relationships, religious beliefs and poverty. The songs are marked by short, repetitive rhythmic patterns, created by electric guitars and drums, and occasionally the organ and the piano.