NO Woman No Cry, Three Little Birds, I Shot The Sheriff – song classics we all know the words to and can’t help but sing along with.

He may have died 37 years ago but in the eyes many, Robert Nesta Marley lives on.

Yesterday he would have been 73 years old and to celebrate his birthday we took to the streets to find out exactly what Bob means to the people of Brighton.

He typified the Rastafarian spirit, bringing reggae music to the masses and evolving into a symbol of Jamaican cultural identity.

He achieved remarkable success during his lifetime, becoming an international superstar, but it is the way his legacy has endured that makes him such an immortal figure.

Despite being associated so heavily with Jamaica, Bob’s roots actually stretch to England’s South Coast – his father, Norval

Marley, was a white Jamaican from Sussex who served in the Royal Marines.

Bob’s only live performance in Brighton was July 9, 1980, at the Brighton Centre as part of what would become his farewell Uprising Tour. Today, his legacy lives on in Brighton with his attitude of acceptance, kindness and inclusivity synonymous with the city.

Brighton has a thriving Caribbean community and Bob’s bohemian influence can be found in the vibrant cultural hubs for which the city is so well known.

The Argus spoke to those across Brighton inspired by the legend. 

'He gives us spiratual guidance'

​The Argus:

Luke Martin, owner of Dutch Pot Caribbean food, Elm Grove, Brighton
Luke owns the Dutch Pot trailer, serving Caribbean food, but is also a hip-hop musician.

He said: “As an artist and as a human being I’ve always been conscious about doing good in the community. That’s something that really resonates with Bob. 

“His music is spiritual and it gives you guidance on issues like being good to each other, unity, coming together, one love, one mission. 

“I haven’t been making as much music as I used to but when I do, I keep these concepts in mind.”

'His words are something we can all relate to​'
The Argus:

George Moyo in Soulfoo Food Bar, St James’s Street, Brighton

George comes from Zambia and cooks food with an African/Caribbean blend.

He thinks it’s Marley’s ability to relate to so many people that makes him such an iconic figure.

“Bob Marley’s words, his lyrics – they’re something that everyone relates to,” he said.

“They’re real life scenarios that everyone goes through.

“The same emotions, same kind of situations and sometimes words or the lyrics of a song can actually connect to people’s lives. 

“I think that’s why Bob Marley connects to so many people, because of his lyrics.”

'He’s a way of life'

The Argus:

Giovanna Prince of Granville Road, Hove

Giovanna is Caribbean and credits Bob Marley with empowering people who were downtrodden, giving a voice to people who needed representing.

She said Bob is a way of life for many Caribbeans, with children being raised on his music and influencing their beliefs.

“During the time of his popularity there was a lot of oppression and he became a voice for those who were voiceless.

“Not just in Jamaica, but also in Africa, people would use him as a battle cry.

“I’ve been listening to Bob Marley since I was in in my mother’s womb.”

'What a legend'

The Argus:

Brian Moyo in Soulfoo Food Bar, St James’s Street, Brighton 

Brian describes his cooking as a unification of cultures and styles – something he takes from the music of Bob Marley.

He sees Bob’s music as a banner under which everybody can come together, no matter their nationality or beliefs.

“The guy was honest,” he said. He’s truthful in every way you can think of and his music, it speaks for itself. He’s a legend – there will never be another one. 

“He’s probably the most photographed image in the world, wherever you go.”