Paramount Pictures has unveiled an exclusive sneak peek into it’s widely successful biopic, “Bob Marley: One Love.” This never-before-seen clip offers a glimpse behind the scenes as the filmmakers delve into the mystical aura surrounding Bob Marley’s legendary concerts.
In the clip, Bob Marley’s nephew, Aston Bennett Jr., shares insights alongside film director Reinaldo Marcus Green, shedding light on the immersive experience they aimed to create for audiences. As the camera pans over scenes of vibrant concert reenactments, Bennett and Green describe the magical essence they sought to capture, allowing viewers to feel the transcendent energy of Marley’s music and message.
With meticulous attention to detail, the filmmakers painstakingly recreated Bob Marley’s iconic performances, infusing each scene with authenticity for the reggae legend’s legacy. From the pulsating rhythms of the music to the energy of the crowds, every aspect of Marley’s concerts was brought to life with precision.
As Aston Bennett Jr. and Reinaldo Marcus Green delve deeper into the creative process, audiences are given a glimpse into the passion and dedication driving the film’s production. Their commitment to honoring Bob Marley’s spirit and impact promises an unforgettable cinematic experience for fans and newcomers alike.
To witness the mystical magic behind the recreation of Bob Marley’s iconic concerts, check out the exclusive clip below from Bob Marley: One Love’
Paramount Pictures biopic Bob Marley: One Love, based on the prolific life of Jamaican musician Bob Marley, has eclipsed $100 million at the box office in only ten days.
The breakdown includes over $60 million in North America and nearly $40 million from foreign box office. Full stop. These days, when theatrical successes are few and far between, as the exhibition industry still works out the kinks post-pandemic, this is a big win.
It is fair to say Bob Marley: One Love has performed better than projections with a modest production budget of $70 million.
The biopic is directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and stars Kingsley Ben-Adir as Bob Marley and Lashana Lynch, who plays Marley’s wife, Rita Marley. Despite the strong performance, the film follows other run-of-the-mill biopic blueprints, follows Marley’s life during essential moments, and dives into his music and the storied activism that arose from it.
In a statement from Bob Marley’s son Ziggy Marley, he said: “My family and I are honored with the amazing response to ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. Like my father’s music, this movie is meant for the people and his message of peace, love, and unity is clearly connecting with audiences around the world. We thank the people for embracing this film and in so doing helping to highlight the message of one love.”
Paramount’s highly anticipated biopic One Love, depicting the life and music of reggae legend Bob Marley, has exceeded expectations with a stellar $80 million global debut.
The film’s portrayal of Marley’s journey has struck a chord with audiences worldwide, surpassing box office projections and affirming its status as a cultural sensation.
According to Deadline, Bob Marley: One Love has earned an estimated $80 million in its opening week, with $29 million generated from international box office sales. Despite initial doubts from critics, audiences have embraced the film’s depiction of Marley’s life and legacy, joining together to celebrate his music and enduring influence.
The success of One Love highlights the universal resonance of Bob Marley’s music and message, transcending borders to unite audiences globally. With compelling storytelling and captivating performances, the film captures Marley’s essence and the profound impact of his music on generations of fans.
The documentary “Bob Marley: One Love” performed exceptionally well at the box office, surpassing Sunday’s domestic projections with a three-day total of $27.7 million and reaching $51 million over six days. This success underscores the enduring appeal of Marley’s work and his remarkable talent, despite the finite amount of content available following his death. According to an analysis by the Megaways-Casino analytics team, Marley’s streaming figures on music platforms contribute significantly to his legacy’s financial support for his heirs. For instance, on Spotify in the past month, Marley’s tracks were played 12,526 times, with his most popular song “Judge Not” accumulating 4,516,237 streams, translating to approximately $18,064.95 in revenue. However, his popularity on YouTube Music is even more pronounced, with over 4 million subscribers to his channel and the track “Sun Is Shining” amassing 78,653,199 streams, equating to $137,643.10 in earnings.
Ziggy Marley is an iconic figure in the world of reggae music. He has carved out an illustrious career that spans decades, following in the footsteps of his legendary father, Bob Marley. As of 2024, Ziggy Marley’s net worth is estimated at $12 million, a testament to his enduring presence in the music industry and his ventures beyond it. This figure, highlighted by Eric Singer, showcases the successful trajectory of Marley’s career, encompassing his musical achievements and his contributions to philanthropy, business, and advocacy. Further, Ziggy’s journey from the son of a music legend to a revered artist and humanitarian in his own right is a compelling narrative of innovation.
Legacy & Musical Evolution
Photo of Jamaican Reggae musician Ziggy Marley at the Montreux Rock Festival, Montreux. Switzerland, May 12, 1988. (Photo by TPLP/Getty Images)
Ziggy Marley was born David Nesta “Ziggy” Marley. He was thrust into the limelight at a young age as the eldest son of Bob Marley. Moreover, Ziggy grew up in a household deeply entrenched in music. He naturally gravitated towards his father’s path, absorbing the rich musical heritage of his family. Ziggy made his onstage debut alongside his siblings in the group The Melody Makers. It was a formative experience that would lay the foundation for his future solo career. While deeply rooted in the reggae tradition passed down by his father, Ziggy’s music has also embraced a diverse range of influences. It also allowed him to forge a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Further, Ziggy Marley’s impact extends far beyond the confines of music. He has ventured into various fields, including writing, with his children’s books promoting messages of love and unity, and acting, lending his voice to animated characters that share his positive vibes. Moreover, Ziggy has been a staunch advocate for environmental causes and marijuana legalization, using his platform to raise awareness and drive change. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his organic food and hemp products businesses, which further diversify his career and contribute to his net worth.
Philanthropy & Social Impact
Musician Ziggy Marley in February, 2016 also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gregory Bojorquez/Getty Images)
A significant aspect of Ziggy Marley’s legacy is his commitment to philanthropy and social activism. Inspired by his father’s vision of love and unity, Ziggy has dedicated a considerable part of his life and resources to supporting causes related to education, health, and environmental protection. Through his family’s foundation, he has worked tirelessly to uplift communities in Jamaica and beyond, embodying the ethos of giving back that was instilled in him from a young age.
Cultural Ambassador & Reggae Icon
PARIS, FRANCE – FEBRUARY 01: (L-R) Kingsley Ben-Adir, Ziggy Marley and. Reinaldo Marcus Green attend the Paris Premiere of “Bob Marley: One Love” at Le Grand Rex on. February 01, 2024, also in Paris, France. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)
As a cultural ambassador for reggae music, Ziggy Marley has played a pivotal role in introducing the genre to new generations and geographic locales. His efforts to preserve and celebrate his father’s legacy while also pushing the boundaries of reggae have earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. His numerous Grammy Awards are a testament to his talent and ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing music landscape.
Paramount’s highly anticipated Bob Marley biopic, ‘One Love’, has made waves in its opening week, raking in an impressive $80 million globally. The film, which brings to life the legendary reggae icon’s journey and music, has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, surpassing box office expectations and solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.
According to reports from Deadline, ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ has garnered an estimated $80 million in its debut week, with $29 million of that total coming from international box office sales. Despite early skepticism from critics, audiences have embraced the film’s portrayal of Bob Marley’s life and legacy, coming together to celebrate his music and enduring influence.
The success of ‘One Love’ underscores the universal appeal of Bob Marley’s music and message, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries to unite audiences around the world. Through powerful storytelling and captivating performances, the film captures the essence of Marley’s spirit and the impact of his music on generations of fans.
In conjunction with the film’s release, The Source Magazine’ Courtney Brown conducted an exclusive interview with Ziggy Marley, the executive producer of ‘One Love’ and son of Bob Marley. In this insightful conversation, Ziggy Marley offers behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the film and reflects on his father’s enduring legacy.
As the film continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, it serves as a powerful tribute to Marley’s legacy and a celebration of his timeless music. ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ is now playing in theaters, offering audiences a chance to experience the life, music, and legacy of one of music’s most iconic figures. As the film’s box office success continues to soar, it reinforces the enduring impact of Bob Marley’s music and the universal message of love, unity, and social justice that he championed throughout his life.
Don’t miss this exclusive interview with Ziggy Marley discussing Paramount’s highly anticipated film “Bob Marley: One Love”. Esteemed journalist Courtney Brown from The Source Magazine sits down with Ziggy Marley, producer of the biopic that delves into the life of legendary reggae musician Bob Marley. Get insights into the making of the film, its star-studded cast including Kingsley Ben-Adir and Lashana Lynch, and the impact of Bob Marley’s legacy.
Tune in for an in-depth conversation about the film’s creation and its significance in celebrating the iconic artist’s life and music. Watch below.
Without question, Jamaica’s greatest export is reggae music, as embodied by the genre icon Bob Marley. Even if you’ve never had the fortune to visit the Caribbean country, Marley’s influence can be felt around the globe. Regardless of the genre, the late musician’s groundbreaking discography is the undercurrent for some of the world’s biggest acts, including Burna Boy, Bruno Mars, Janelle Monáe, Nas, Stevie Wonder, and The Police.
In Paramount Pictures’ biopic Bob Marley: One Love, starring Kingsley Ben-Adir (as Bob Marley) and Lashana Lynch (as Rita Marley), audiences are reminded of Marley’s musical greatness. However, the overlooked takeaway from the film is the cultural significance of reggae music. Born out of multiple diasporic sounds (mainly ska, rocksteady, and calypso), its mento (folk) core is what curated the art form into a calling card specific to the people of Jamaica.
As was the case for hip-hop, reggae’s rise had everything to do with its alluring instrumentation as well as the profoundly political and social commentary heard throughout each record’s lyrics. Somewhere along the way, that rebel spirit has been lost (or at least on the mainstream front). So, how did the genre go from Bob Marley And The Wailers’ 1977 version of “One Love” to Drake’s “One Dance” in 2016? Similar to the music itself, the answer to this question is quite layered. The decentering of religious obligations, commodification of Jamaican culture, and leniency of gatekeepers have all contributed to the erasure of reggae music’s social & political commentary roots.
First, you must examine Marley, the man and musician, to dissect why he’s revered around the globe. The person behind those poetic pieces was a spiritually rich man far before his tangible wealth set in. In journalist Vivien Goldman’s 2006 The Book Of Exodus, she recounted one of her many conversations with Marley before his death, where he detailed his faith journey into Rastafarianism. Having a vision of Jah (God) in 1966 while living in America prompted him to return to Jamaica “with a clear vision” of his life’s purpose. Marley’s unwavering tether to his religious obligations led him to inherit the moral responsibilities of a messenger.
Reggae or, as he referred to it, “the king’s music” (quoted by Timothy White in his 1983 biography, Catch A Fire: The Life Of Bob Marley), each time Marley touched a microphone, his duties were to lead his people toward’s God favor pushing back against the wickedness in the world. With Dancehall being the dominant sound coming out of Jamaica presently, long gone are the days when reggae acts could break through for simply speaking truth to power. To borrow a line from the 1993 film Menace II Society, ‘Don’t nobody wanna hear that sh*t, Sharif.’ Well, unless you count Koffee (the youngest musician to win a Grammy in the reggae category). That’s not to say that rising stars Byron Messia, Jada Kingdom, or Dexta Daps don’t sprinkle spirituality into their music. It’s just not their primary focus. Nor does it pick up steam outside the country’s parishes in days past.
The commodification of Jamaican culture has played the most significant role in the erasure of reggae music’s social & political commentary roots. Globalization is a b*tch. As quickly as Marley’s music traveled, so did the industry’s urge to convert this newly found popularity into a steady income stream. From labels’ rush to extract reggae’s musicality (native instruments, production techniques, etc.) to companies’ mass production of “Rasta-inspired” tchotchkes, an influx of items hit the market to give those obsessed with the country’s superstars a piece of Jamaica on-demand.
We’re not talking just about the white tourist wearing tams with faux dreadlocks (zatavi) crocheted into them. Most certainly, it includes non-natives cosplaying cultural ambiguity. This ushers in the music industry question equivalent of whether Black folks can or can not be racist. So, can Black people appropriate other sectors of Black culture? When you boil it down to semantics, the answer is no. But are Black people (including bi-racial or multi-racial) often seen exploiting Caribbean cultures in stereotypical ways? The answer is, without a shadow of a doubt, yes. Is reggae music a monolith? No. But it’s okay to admit that we’re losing the plot.
Rihanna’s 2005 “If It’s Lovin’ That You Want” to 2009 “Rude Boy” pipeline isn’t precisely how reggae music was intended to evolve, but does that mean it should be stripped from the rolling credits? Drake’s “One Dance” is inspired by reggae music. This development is a game of telephone set to music where the subject matter drastically changes, and the instrumentation refuses to give in to eroding. What happens when the money means more than the message? I don’t know. Ask hip-hop.
Its gatekeepers were the last line of defense in reggae music to retain its social & political commentary roots. Unfortunately, their leniency inadvertently contributed to the genre’s now dull bite. When talking about music families, there’s no one above the Marleys in reggae. Starting with the paternal figures to the children and now grandchildren (hi, Skip), several generations of the Marley bloodline carry the torch both in the booth and label boardrooms. Other key players, including producers, songwriters, DJs, and more, continually fuel the genre’s progression on the ground in Jamaica.
Still, as far back as the 1990s, the barrier enforced based on socioeconomic upbringing nearly pushed Sean Paul out of music. In a 2022 documentary with Vice, Paul confessed that during the early days of his career, he desperately wanted to make “cultural records” that spoke to the economic and living conditions of Jamaica’s ghettos harkening to reggae’s foundation. However, producer Jeremy Harding (one of the most impactful music professionals in reggae) advised against it. “[Harding] was like, ‘You know nobody believes you. You know that, right? You’re not the person that will be able to ‘preach.’ So, why don’t you sing about who you are… sing about girls. Sing about parties.’”
Ultimately, Paul’s success doing so helped kick off Dancehall’s international resurgence in 2000 (so thanks for that). Still, now the public is left to fantasize about what artist Paul could’ve been if given the space to craft the art he originally intended. In the same video piece, Harding shed further insight into the divide in Jamaica on who can be the vocal authority in reggae.
“As I started to work with Sean, we realized that we shared a similar background — the way that we describe it, we were Uptown kids,” he said. “So, the friends and family that we had around us were looking at us strangely. Like, ‘Why do you want to get involved with Dancehall? Dancehall is nasty, dutty, ghetto music?’ And at the same time, you’re struggling against the other side of the community, saying, ‘Oh, you shouldn’t be here because you don’t have a place in this music’ and ‘You’re not from the ghetto; therefore, you are not authentic.’”
“Everyone was challenging [me], [saying] ‘You can’t express for us,’” added Paul.
Yet, that same protective energy disappeared when given the breakout moment to promote Bob Marley: One Love during the 2024 Grammys; Ziggy Marley laughed along as host Trevor Noah poked fun at the Jamaican accent and many of their easygoing personalities instead of focusing on the richness of the culture.
What good are gatekeepers if they aren’t keeping the culture when it matters the most? You tell me. Are Afrobeats and amapiano tastemakers taking heed?
Where do we go from here? Nowhere. As with hip-hop, the damage is already done. A complete gutting would have to take place to undo what has been done, which economic players likely won’t let happen. In short, Bob Marley: One Love is a painstaking reminder of what was and how the decentering of religious obligations, commodification of Jamaican culture, and leniency of gatekeepers have all contributed to the erasure of reggae music’s social & political commentary roots.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
The Bob Marley biopic Bob Marley: One Love will open in theaters next Friday, but for now, you can check out the film’s soundtrack, which functions as a greatest hits, of sorts, from Bob and The Wailers. Meanwhile, the film’s release will be accompanied by Bob Marley: One Love (Music Inspired By The Film), a seven-song EP featuring contemporary artists like Kacey Musgraves and Daniel Caesar covering the reggae icon’s classic songs. The latest single from the upcoming release is the best so far, with Leon Bridges covering the ultimate track from 1980’s Uprising, “Redemption Song.”
As Bridges is an accomplished guitarist in his own right and has a honeyed whiskey vocal tone, the warmth of his cover could melt even the coldest heart. While it’s not a straightforward cover, the song’s nature as a clean guitar ballad means Bridges’ take is both familiar enough to evoke nostalgia for the original but unique enough to stand on its own.
Bridges is a few years removed from his most recent full-length album, 2021’s Gold-Diggers Sound, but has stayed busy since then, recording two EPs with Texas psych-soul band Khruangbin in 2020 and 2022, and collaborating with Miranda Lambert on “If You Were Mine” in 2023. If “Redemption Song” is the first sign of a possible new release from Bridges in 2024, we’ll take it.
Listen to “Redemption Song” above.
Bob Marley: One Love (Music Inspired By The Film) is out on 2/14 through Tuff Gong/ Island Records.
In a world desperately in need of messages of peace and unity, the upcoming film Bob Marley: One Lovearrives like a beacon of hope. Scheduled to hit theaters on February 14, 2024, this cinematic masterpiece promises to deliver an intimate and inspiring look at the life of the legendary Bob Marley, whose music and message have transcended generations, cultures, and geographical boundaries.
Starring Kingsley Ben-Adir in the lead role, Bob Marley: One Love offers audiences a glimpse into the personal and professional journey of one of the most iconic figures in music history. Ben-Adir, known for his powerful performances, embodies the spirit and essence of Marley, capturing not just the musician’s physical likeness but also his soulful charisma and profound commitment to spreading love and unity through his music.
Joining Ben-Adir is an ensemble cast featuring Lashana Lynch as Rita Marley, bringing to life the partnership that was central not only to Bob’s personal life but also to his musical journey. Lynch’s portrayal of Rita is expected to highlight the strength and resilience of the woman who was not just Marley’s wife but also his musical collaborator and the mother of his children. The cast also includes James Norton and Tosin Cole, among others, each contributing to the rich tapestry of relationships and experiences that shaped Marley’s life and legacy.
Bob Marley: One Love is not just a biopic but a celebration of Marley’s enduring impact on music and society. Produced in partnership with the Marley family, the film offers an authenticity and depth that promises to connect with audiences on a profound level. From his early days in Trenchtown, Kingston, to his rise as a global superstar, the film delves into Marley’s struggles, his triumphs, and the creation of music that continues to inspire and unite people across the world.
Check out this exclusive clip from the film which showcases a pivotal moment in Marley’s life, blending stunning performances, evocative cinematography, and a meticulously curated soundtrack that features some of Marley’s most beloved songs. This sneak peek alone suggests that audiences are in for a deeply moving and visually captivating experience that pays homage to Marley’s genius and his message of love, peace, and unity.
Bob Marley: One Love hits theaters February 14th, 2024!
The soundtrack for the Kingsley Ben-Adir Bob Marley biopic Bob Marley: One Love is due for release the same day the film comes to theaters on Valentine’s Day, but today, we received another glimpse at the EP, which will feature contemporary artists’ covers of the Jamaican icon’s classics. Last week, Kacey Musgraves released a cover of the Wailers’ 1977 staple “Three Little Birds,” and today, Daniel Caesar offered a unique, soulful take on an underrated catalog classic, “Waiting In Vain.”
While the original version appears on Exodus alongside “Three Little Birds” and maintains the bright, midtempo roots approach of the rest of the songs on the album, Caesar’s version slows things down, taking a more mournful angle to the song’s plaintive messaging. With Daniel Caesar’s signature emphasis on bass-driven rhythm and pretty but sad synths, the cover strikes a suitable balance between the frustration and hope of carrying a torch for someone who may not feel the same.
Caesar’s far from the first artist to cover the Wailers classic; in 1993, jazz guitarist Lee Ritenour recorded a version with British reggae artist Maxi Priest, while in 1995, Annie Lennox also issued a haunting contemporary take (wearing Mickey Mouse ears in the video, no less) that featured in a number of early 2000s movies. (As I write this, I have been informed by my girlfriend that there is also an OPM — Original Pinoy Music — version by a band called MYMP — Make Your Momma Proud — and so I am including it here.)
Check out Caesar’s version of “Waiting In Vain” below.
