Bob Marley: A Life

by Garry Steckles

One of the twentieth century’s most iconic cultural figures, Bob Marley was responsible for popularizing reggae music throughout the world. He set attendance records that still stand today and his 1977 Exodus album was hailed by Time magazine as the greatest of the 20th Century. His unique blend of politically conscious lyrics and unforgettable melodies won him legions of fans far beyond the Caribbean. But Marley was no mere pop star: his strong attachment to Rasta beliefs and practices and his fierce hostility to the injustice of "Babylon" made him an important spokesperson for the dispossessed all over the globe. In this new biography, Garry Steckles follows Marley’s eventful life through the early days in rural Jamaica, arrival in Kingston, first recordings and performances to his spectacular status as an international superstar. Throughout he analyzes Marley’s political and religious beliefs, while also concentrating on his relationships with fellow musicians, family and influential figures. A chapter focusing on Marley’s long-term legacy explores what the musician contributed to world music and what the religious believer gave to Rastafarianism.

Genres: Biography, Music

256 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2008

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

While this book is extremely thorough with all the details of Bob Marley's life, the writing is terrible. It reads like a book report. Actually, you could probably add some kind of picture or drawing to go along with each and every paragraph and turn this into a children's book because that's what it felt like when I was reading it.

It also bothered me how the author overglorified Marley. I read this book for a class and while I wouldn't have chosen to read this in my own time, I was actually kind of excited to read it. I felt like the author disregarded any flaw Marley had or would try to make up for anything remotely negative that Marley did by saying it was out of character or "normal." Then he would go and belittle other people and cultures mentioned in the book.

It's still an interesting read and, according to my professor, the "best" Bob Marley book there is but it was painful to read.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a middle of the road book about Bob Marley's life and career. If you would like a quick read that just hits on highlights of Marley's career this would be a good book to read. The only thing I found kind of annoying was that the author would comment about up coming events in Marley's life and then just gloss over them when it came to the event. If your just interesting in some casual information than this may be the book for you to read.

[Joe Brunory · Rating 5 out of 5]

i loved this book. Steckles really showed not only Marley's massive accomplishments, but the flavor in which all these events happened, the political and local environments, the real people that made up his day to day and how it all went down. truly amazing story that provides an even more impressive backdrop for music.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book read more like the encyclopedia explanation of who Bob Marley was. Regardless, the author clearly had done his research, knew his facts, and took pride in his work. I respect the amount of work/research that was put into this book. I was tempted to shelf this book a few times instead of finishing it. Felt like there were TOO many super detailed facts and not enough story.

[Lindsay Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recommend this book for those who would like to learn about the life of Bob Marley, his accomplishments and the history of the music of Bob Marley and the Wailers. The only negative I found was that there were a few holes, especially regarding Bob and Rita.

[Jbondandrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book about Bob Marley, as I do every book despite Marley's early death. Marley has inspired me too, not to great heights but to hold on to my beliefs. I don't remember when I first listened to Bob but I shall forever more.

[Nicole Burbank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to my brother I have always loved Bob Marley....and thanks to this book I love him even more! :)

[Ingrid · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The author did a wonderful job telling Bob's story without simply hero worshipping, which I am sure is very difficult when writing about Bob Marley.

[Aaron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good introduction and overview of Bob Marley's accomplishments, life, career and legacy.

[Abagail Fish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a well written book, that gave not just facts about when events happened and who were thought to be there, but also gave context of the energy, the environment and the vibe of those who were present. Not too lengthy, as not everyone loves to delve into 300+ pages!

[Greg Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic read

[Jeff Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

To tell the truth I was not a fan Of Marley until I read his life story. Truly amazing that he grew up dirt poor and through hard work built a legacy. It is a shame he left us so soon, the world needs more like him.

[Mollie · Rating 4 out of 5]

i am officially obsessed with marley and the jamaican culture. i thought i was bad before lol

nice background on his musical life... especially with the wailers. a lot i never knew!