I grew up listening to this man's music. But after seeing the Vh-1 Behind The Music series, I have to say that I have even more respect for him and his music. Now this was a man who truly had a mission, vision and a purpose. He knew exactly what he wanted to use his music as a platform for. He went through all types of trials and tribulations to deliver his message (even an assassination attempt).Amazing. I had not seen much video foootage of him, so this special was a revelation of sorts for me.

Time Magazine said his EXODUS album is the most important album of the 20th century (bold statement...but hey it's an incredible record). I grew up in the 70's listening to his songs on AM radio on those soul/R&B stations (radio was bold, daring and exciting in those days). To me, his songs were SOUL music. I mean his songs on the radio beside a Stevie Wonder or Parliamment song didn't sound out of place at all. There was so much authority in his music. His lyrics and sonic backdrop just reaches in and touch the inner depths of your soul.

I still think one of the last songs he cut on his last album UPRISING "Redemption Song" is his best song. Just him and his guitar. So raw and deep is the song. It's a true work of genius. I particularly like how he summed up his whole purpose as a musician with the main lines...

"Won't you help me sing...these songs of freedom...cause all I ever had is redemption song"

Indeed, it was a fitting swan song for a musical legend whom some in music circles called "the Bob Dylan of the 1970's". Speaking of legend, his greatest hits album LEGEND continues to sell millions of copies. It is currently the number #1 album on Billboard's Pop Album Catalogue chart and it has sold a whopping 10 million copies here in the U.S.

I also enjoyed the Peter Tosh special. Now that dude was angry and rebellious. He had a violent life. I was surprised when on the behind the music show, they said that he was beaten by the police one time in Jamaica for 90 minutes,,, that seems almost unrealistic, but that's what they said. Then later on he would die by violence. Brother had a rough life.

It was an excellent documentary. Both Marley and Tosh were very talented . Excellent music was created with them and the Wailers.

Bob Marely is another person that took music to another level. He's greatly appreciated and admired in my heart and mind also.

Starmist7 said:

Bob Marley is a "messenger" He still lives on through his music...My favorite song is Redemption song, and Stevie Wonders cover (covers, something that prince criticizes) is an excellent soul grabbing masterpiece...

"How long shall they kill our prophets, while we stand aside and look, some say it's just a part of it, we've got to fulfill the book. My hand was made strong by the hand of the almighty, we forward this generation..triumphantly, won't u help me sing, these songs of freedom...cuz all I ever have...redemption song..."

"Emancipate yourself from out of slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds, have no fear for atomic energy, cuz none of them can stop the times..."...

something like that...LOL...

Bob also said, that the only way to win the revolution is through Rasta...:0)...What an amazing Soul.

I haven't picked up the remastered versions yet, but some of Marley's cd's have been remastered and reissued with extra material. Then there are the same remastered/reissued albums in their original form too. The expanded editions contain 2 cd's if I'm not mistaken.

Chris Blackwell, Island Records founder, said he used to always tell Bob to get the toe checked. He waited too long. Although his health improved a lot after he got medical attention. Sometimes I wonder if Bob regretted not having that toe amputated once he knew his condition was fatal.

Vagina said:

I Agree with your Statement.it took this Man Many Years After His Death before He got the Full Appreciation that His Music was Due.Same with Peter Tosh.the Rolling Stones use to Fly over&Hang with Tosh&also they Jacked some of His Stuff as well.Tosh is deserves Madd Props as well.