It’s been 33 years since the world lost one of the biggest reggae icons, but Bob Marley’s birthday continues to be celebrated with just as much spirit and extravagance. In honor of his father’s 69th birthday, Stephen “Ragga” Marley revealed a brand new song off of his upcoming album, titled “Thorn or a Rose”.
The song, “Thorn or a Rose” features Black Thought of The Roots and gives listeners a taste of what to expect from the upcoming album “Revelation Part 2: The Fruit of Life”, set for release in the summer. In addition to the album, the eight-time Grammy winning artist will also be busy touring major cities across the country in April and May.
The new album will be the second one in a two-part series after his 2012 Grammy-winning Best Reggae Album “Revelation Part I: The Root of Life”. While the first album focused on the traditional elements of roots reggae, powerful spiritual messages and live instrumentation, the second album will provide listeners with a completely different sound.
“The Fruit of Life” will express a different side of Jamaica’s widespread music, featuring hip-hop and other genres in order to merge the sounds. The lyrics of the newly released song focus on current issues in society such as race relations. By incorporating other sounds, Stephen is hoping to illustrate the immense influence his father’s music had on genres outside of reggae. The album will feature Rick Ross, Ky-Mani Marley, Busta Rhymes, Wyclef Jean, Shaggy, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Rakim and others.
Not only did Stephen release the song in honor of his father’s birthday, but he also commemorated his father all week through his #BobMarleyWeek campaign, encouraging fans to post support and download Bob Marley backgrounds.
As one fan said it, “Bob can only be so proud!”
Stephen Marley Links:
Stephen Marley Website
Stephen Marley Facebook
Stephen Marley Twitter
Article by: Erin Walsh
Photo by: David Norris
Watch: Stephen Marley feat. Black Thought – “Thorn or a Rose”
