Ja. Radio's Initiative to Make Bob Marley a National Hero
Posted by Pat White at 3/16/2008 11:54 PM and is filed under uncategorized 
Bob Marley
One of Jamaica's Radio Stations has begun an initiative to try and make Bob Marley a National Hero. My vote is No. Bob Marley is and will always be one of Jamaica's Icons. After all, he placed Jamaica on the map with his deep conscious lyrics and his soulful reggae music. He is famous for his dread locks, Rasterfarianism, great music, a cute smile, among other things (sniff, sniff, cough, cough.)
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe a National Hero had to have some profound cause, or led their people in some kind of a movement. Some National Heroes have gone as far as risk their lives for such a cause or movement, and some paid the ultimate price - died for such a cause or ideology.
Bob Marley displayed enormous talent as a song writer and musician. Yes he had deep profound thoughts and conscious lyrics, but he was never a proclaimed leader and he never walked a tight rope for his ideologies. Yes he earned a lot of respect at home and abroad, and his music was a source of inspiration and comfort to many, but I don't think those things alone should be reason to make someone a National Hero.
Risk comes to mind when I think of a Hero, let alone a National Hero. Putting oneself at risk in a leadership position and for some kind of belief or ideology. I can't say I can check those three things off for Bob Marley. Having said that, Bob Marley is Jamaica's Pride and Joy and will always be the King of Reggae. All Hail to the King of Reggae.
What are your thoughts. Do you think Bob Marley fit the criteria to become a National Hero? Post a comment below. Its quick and easy.
Its hard to disagree, when you put it like that. On the surface, people may be quick to say yes to him being a National Hero, but they may be confusing Hero with a star or Icon. So... I have to agree with you
Reply to this
He should be considered for being a hero. He lead with words and inspired many through music. He spoke out against many injustices and went in the middle of trying to get two political parties to end their strife. His life was attacked twice (this may be directly or indirectly related to his message/stance for his people), therefore his life was at risk. In fact, there are still people out there who believe that his life was cut short and could have been spared if he was not Bob Marley. He fits the criteria for a national hero.
Reply to this