This is the sixth of a seven-part series, commissioned by Red Stripe, on the life and legacy of the Honourable Robert Nesta Marley, OM, on the 71st anniversary of his birth.

TO say Bob Marley’s contribution to Jamaica is of inestimable value, is to state the obvious. There is no doubting the extent of his impact and the reach of his influence. In just 13,243 days, Marley came into the world, found his place and his purpose, honed musical skills to phenomenal levels, inspired generations globally, earned a place in history and proved that no matter where you come from you can impact your world.

Decades after his passing, the boy from Nine Miles continues to create a stir. The globally renowned

Forbes magazine has named Marley on its 2015 list of Top Earning Dead Celebrities. At the number 4 spot, Marley is among megastars like Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley.

“I don’t think you can find anyone from a country that, in death, can boast that they are the third-largest salesperson in terms of music, in terms of clothing, in terms of style,” said Youth and Culture Minister Lisa Hanna at the launch of the 71st Bob Marley Celebrations in Kingston.

The strength of Marley’s legacy is intrinsically linked to his ability to transcend race and class boundaries. His posters adorn the walls of college dorms across the world, his lyrics are referenced in speeches by world leaders and his songs are recited by non-English speakers everywhere. While many Marley lovers may not fully grasp the depth of the story behind this

Buffalo Soldier, all can identify with the message ofOne Love.

As a social commentator, Marley was insightful and courageous in his assessment. Speaking at the launch of the 2016 Marley celebrations, Minister Hanna said she was honoured to represent the constituency where Marley was born, and had no qualms about giving him due respect as an influencer of people.

“Bob himself was one of the supreme politicians of this country,” said Hanna.

Invoking The Message of Marley

Football aficionado and one of Marley’s dearest friends, Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell has enouraged Jamaicans to honour Bob’s memory by spreading his message of love and peace.

“It is our duty to encourage the youths, especially our young men, to steer clear of the upheavals,” said Campbell in reference to the impending general election.

“Once I’m alive, I believe Bob Marley lives. Bob was a prophet,” said Campbell, while addressing the launch of the annual Masters & Celebrities One Love Football Competition. Now in its 35th year, the charity tournament continues to promote love and peace through sports.

This year, Campbell says the celebrations will also honour reggae greats Dennis Brown and the Mighty Diamonds for their contributions to reggae music. The competition will kick off at the Arnett Gardens Sports Complex on Ash Wednesday, February 10. The event is made possible through the support of the Bob Marley Foundation and sponsorship fromcoprorate entities like Red Stripe and Digicel.