From Kingston to Tel Aviv, fans around the world of will celebrate reggae legend Bob Marley’s 70th birthday today. The dreadlocked wonder performed in many countries during his heyday, spreading his message of One Love. Marley died from cancer in May 1981 at age 36.
Wellington, New Zealand
Marley made his only appearance in New Zealand in 1979 at the Western Springs Stadium in the city of Auckland. Today, the city of Wellington celebrates his 70th with the event, Birthday with The Original Wailers. Guitarist Al Anderson and keyboardist Tyrone Downie, members of Marley’s band, are special guests.
London
The British capitol was the scene of several highs for the reggae king, including his triumphant concert at the Lyceum Theatre in 1975. LEGEND: A Tribute to Bob Marley will be held at the Brooklyn Bowl tomorrow.
Bermuda
Yami Bolo and Junior Reid will perform at a Marley tribute show tomorrow at the Bermuda Athletic Association Gymnasium in Hamilton, the country’s capitol.
The roots singers are headliners for the event which will also feature local singers Mitchell Trott, Ramon Clark and Rivah.
Bolo, who will be making his third appearance in the British dependent, cited Marley’s impact on his career.
“Brother Bob had a tremendous influence on me. He was a great leader of humanity,” said Bolo, who lists his favourite Marley songs as Jah Will be Waiting There, I Know a Place and Survival.
Dubai
The Bob Marley 70th Birthday Bash takes place at XL Beach Club tomorrow with singjay Mr Vegas as headliner.
The oil-rich Middle East country has a growing expatriate community (including Jamaicans) who are big into dancehall/reggae.
Most of the ‘Jamaican’ events are held at XL Beach Club. Mr Vegas (and sound systems) will do tributes to the reggae legend.
Toronto
The ninth annual Bob Marley Birthday Tribute takes place at Lee’s Palace tomorrow. This is the longest running Marley tribute in the Greater Toronto Area. It features the city’s upcoming reggae acts and raises ‘food donations’ for the Parkdale Food Bank.