On what would have been Bob Marley's 80th birthday, 8,000 primary school children gathered at the Manchester Co-op Arena to celebrate the reggae legend's legacy.
The young singers performed a medley of his greatest hits, joined remotely by children from around the world in a worldwide singalong.
Marley's daughter, Cedella Marley, expressed her joy at the tribute, saying, "I know my dada would be overjoyed that his words of freedom, love, and unity are being sung by so many beautiful young voices 50 years after he wrote them."
The event, organized by Young Voices, saw participation from over 2,000 schools, with 300,000 children broadcasting their performances to 50 countries. Young Voices CEO Ben Lewis highlighted the enduring appeal of Marley's music, stating, "It's a testament to his global influence."
Liverpool poet Levi Tafari, a longtime fan, recalled seeing Marley perform at King's Hall in Belle Vue in 1976, calling it a "life-changing experience." "We were just ten deep from the stage," he remembered. "We could see all his features, his expressions—everything."
Another Liverpool native, singer Tommy Blaize from Strictly Come Dancing, shared how Marley's music shaped his own musical journey. "Growing up in Toxteth in the 60s and 70s, Bob Marley was a huge presence," he said. "His music was always joyful, yet carried a powerful message. To me, it's like a hymn—timeless and unforgettable."
Marley, who passed away from cancer at 36 in 1981, left behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire generations. This global tribute proved that his message of unity, love, and resilience still resonates, especially among the voices of the future. Photo by Thynus, Wikimedia commons.
