Bob Marley

by Stephen Davis

Rebel, visionary and uncompromising champion of human rights, Robert Nesta Marley rose from the slums of Kingston, Jamaica to become a spiritual and political force throughout the world. Stephen Davis has created an intimate portrait of the charismatic reggae superstar, which takes us through his life and career and charts the legal battles surrounding his estate. Originally published in 1994, Bob Marley  is now available for the first time in the United States.

Genres: Music, Biography, Nonfiction, History

352 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

About the author

Stephen Davis is is a rock journalist and biographer, having written numerous bestsellers on rock bands, including the smash hit Hammer of the Gods. He lives in Boston.

Librarians note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[Sacre Bahati]

This book is a great book that takes you into the life of Bob Marley. It makes you feel like you where a close friend of his because you feel like your right there with him feeling what he feels and going through what he is going through also. Its a perfect book for if you are a big fan of Bob Marley, even if your not a huge fan but have heard and liked some of his songs then you should read this book. See where the inspiration, the suffering and the pain that led to his brilliance. Read about his life style his out look on life and it will change your outlook on thing and make you want to live and enjoy life as he did. I just finished the book and I don't want to put it down. I actually want to pick it back up and read it again from the beginning.

[Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I read this book some years ago I do remember crying during one chapter, and thats always a good sign.

[Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book, so much so I grew dreadlocks, carried a stick and began calling everyone brother and sister for a few years. Best I don't revisit that one.

[Twila Forsyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting read. lots of info about bob marley.

[Sammy Tabzz]

fast read, you get to know more about the legend and background.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

1st Read: July 10, 1996 - July 17, 1996
This is one of the highlight books on Robert Nesta Marley for it's time, published in the mid '80's. Thirty years already!! Where did the time go?
It is a very insightful look into Bob's life. They explore and dive into the early years of the mid 1960's, onto his rise of love and Rasta vibrations and the influence throughout the 1970's. Sadly, the '80's were the time that was borrowed, now running empty. However, his legend lives on through his music as he is still hugely popular!
The merchandise is continually being sold in vast quantities. Bob was a shooting star in this lifetime. This book also goes into the influence of Bob's heroes, his spiritual side (which was always on) and his message of "one love, one heart". Marcus Garvey, Haile Selassie and of course the Rastafarianism religion that was a dominant influence in the make-up of just who Bob Marley was. I highly recommend this book if you can find it!

[Lemar · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the disappointing Timothy White bio I was so happy to find this book. White forced his conception of tragedy onto the life of this ebullient and crazy talented charismatic man. Davis celebrates a life that did end tragically short but was full of unheard of triumph. Having seen Bob Marley and the Wailers play the Greek Theater in Berkeley I recognized the feeling of divine fun that Davis imbues this satisfying biography. Leaving the open air theater that night the crowd spontaneously began a sing song chant of Ah Yo answered by the other half A yo yo yo! He brought magic and dignity to the world's attention and was by no means a tragic figure. A working class hero is something to be.

[David Cupples · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love Bob you want to hear every version of every song and read everything that's been written. At the same time you don't want to read garbage. Davis' book is a crucial addition to the field and a useful complement to Tim White's book. More informal and accessible than White and probably more satisfying for most readers. I read as part of my research for my own book (novel) about Bob and his times. Stir It Up: The CIA Targets Jamaica, Bob Marley and the Progressive Manley Government

[Kitt-e-kat · Rating 2 out of 5]

OMG! Took me 3 months to read this book. It was informational but Stephen Davis talks about alot of extra history about Jamaica and politics I was so bored trying to read this book. I only wanted to know about Bobs life and it just went on, an on...I had to make myself to keep reading to finish it. I'm sure with all the Bob Marley biographies out there there may be another one to read about his life. I usually like Stephen Davis book but this one he focused to much on other things.

[Al Redman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly excellent biography. Gives a broad view of the man's life from the perspective of himself and all of those closest to him, using extensive quotes, interviews and social commentary, Davis paints a very clear picture of the Legend himself. If you're a Biography or Marley fan you will not be disappointed. Nearly brought me to tears in the end, an unnecessary death but he is martyred none the less, Jah Bless Bob!

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite biography so far on the amazing life of Robert Nesta Marley. This one fills in a lot of holes that the other biographers have left, and it doesn't contradict information I've already read, like many of these previous books have done. A highly enjoyable and informative read!

[Ben Pablo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I give it three stars because I had a hard time getting through the beginning, his childhood and all. But once I made it to his performing years, I genuinely enjoyed learning about the man, the musician, and the legend. A good pick up for anyone who's ever been interested in Bob Marley.

[114 Alonzo]

I read a book similar to this. It was shocking

[Amber Lynn]

Love.