Starting out in 1963 with the group Bob Marley & The Wailers, he forged a distinctive song-writing and vocal style that would later resonate with audiences worldwide.
The Wailers would go on to release some of the earliest reggae records with producer Lee Scratch Perry.
After The Wailers disbanded in 1974, Marley pursued a solo career which culminated in the release of the album Exodus in 1977 which established his worldwide reputation and became one of the world's best-selling artists of all time, with sales of more than 75 million albums and singles.
Bob Marley was a member of this Rastafari movement, whose culture was a key element in the development of reggae. Bob Marley became the leading proponent of the Rastafari, taking their music out of socially deprived areas of Jamaica and onto the international music scene.
Now considered a "Rasta" prophet, Marley's adoption of the characteristic Rastafarian dreadlocks and famous use of marijuana as a sacred sacrament in the late sixties were an integral part of his persona. He is said to have entered every performance proclaiming the divinity of Jah Rastafari.
A few months before his death, Marley was baptised into the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and took the name Berhane Selassie (meaning the Light of the Holy Trinity in Amharic).
His best known songs are a mixture of reggae, Roots Reggae, and rhythm and blues, which include:
I Shot the Sheriff
Exodus
Could You Be Loved
Redemption Song
No Woman, No Cry
Three Little Birds
Buffalo Soldier
Is This Love
One Love
Stir It Up
Jammin'
Get Up, Stand Up
His posthumous album Legend (1984) became the best-selling reggae album ever, with sales of more than 12 million copies.
Bob Marley was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994; in December 1999, his album “Exodus” (1977) was named Album of the Century by Time Magazine and his song “One Love” was designated Song of the Millennium by the BBC.
Awards and Honors:
1976 - Rolling Stone Magazine's "Band of the Year"
1978 - United Nations' Peace Medal of the Third World
1981 - Jamaican Order of Merit
1994 - The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
1999 - Time Magazine's Best Album of the Century
2001 - Star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame
2001- GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award
2004 - Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Artists of All Time (#11)
2006 - The United Kingdom's "Blue Plaque"
2006 - Bob Marley Boulevard named in Brooklyn, New York
2010 - GRAMMY Hall Of Fame (Catch A Fire)
2012 - August the 7th, proclamed Bob Marley Day (Los Angeles)
2013 - GRAMMY Tribute Performance
Marley tragically died of cancer at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in Miami, Florida on May 11, 1981.
Religion:
Bob Marley was a member of the Rastafari movement, (not rastafaranism as that is seen as a derogortory term as Rasta's don't like being refered to as an ism) whose culture was a key element in the development of reggae music in Jamaica. Rastas belive they are outcast from their native Zion and looked on Ethiopia as their real home and Tafarai Makonnen, who took the title Haile Sellasie I(Power of the Holy Trinity in Amharic), after he became the emperor of Ethiopia, as their leader. Rastas belive H.I.M. is Jesus in flesh. Rastas are considered to be black Jews.
Rastas claim their root from King Solomon and Abbysinian queen of Sheba, through lineage of their son Menelik, emperor of Abbysinia. H.I.M. is said to be a direct decendant of Menelik. 'Ras' means Head and 'Tafarai" means Creator. 'Jah' is the shortened form of the Hebrew word Jehovah. Rastas belive in one truth and that is the truth of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Sellasie I, King of kings, Lord of lords, conquering Lion of the tribe of Judah, two hundred and twenty-fifth ruler of the three thousand year old Ethiopian empire, elect of Jah, Light of the world. Jah Rastafari live out. Rastas preach a non-materialistic, egalitarian way of life. Bob Marley became a leading proponent of the Rastafari, taking their music out of the socially deprived areas of Jamaica and onto the international music scene. Bob Marley was baptized by the Archbishop of the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian Church in Kingston, Jamaica on November 4, 1980.
Diet:
Marley's diet was ital; fruit, vegetables and fish; which is food approved by the Rastafari movement.
Family:
Bob Marley had 13 children: three with his wife Rita Marley, two adopted from Rita's previous relationships, and the remaining eight with separate women.
His children are, in order of birth:
Imani Carole, born May 22, 1963, to Cheryl Murray;
Sharon, born November 23, 1964, to Rita in previous relationship;
Cedella born August 23, 1967, to Rita;
David "Ziggy Marley", born October 17, 1968, to Rita;
Stephen Marley, born April 20, 1972, to Rita;
Robert "Robbie", born May 16, 1972, to Pat Williams;
Rohan, born May 19, 1972, to Janet Hunt;
Karen, born 1973 to Janet Bowen;
Stephanie, born August 17, 1974; according to Cedella Booker she was the daughter of Rita and a man called Ital with whom Rita had an affair; nonetheless she was acknowledged as Bob's daughter;
Julian Marley, born June 4, 1975, to Lucy Pounder;
Ky-Mani Marley, born February 26, 1976, to Anita Belnavis;
Damian Marley, born July 21, 1978, to Cindy Breakspeare;
Makeda, born May 30, 1981, to Yvette Crichton.
See here for comedian Bob Marley the comedian: Comedian Bob Marley
Zion Train
Bob Marley Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
The Zion train is coming our way
Oh, people, get on board (you better get on board)
Thank the Lord (praise fari)
I gotta catch a train, 'cause there is no other station
Then you going in the same direction (ooh-ooh)
Zion's train is coming our way
Which man can save his brother's soul? (save your brother's soul)
Oh man, it's just self control (oo-hoo-oo)
Don't gain the world and lose your soul (just don't lose your soul)
Wisdom is better than silver and gold
To the bridge (ooh, ooh)
Oh, where there's a will
There's always a way
Where there's a will
There's always a way (way, way, way, way)
Soul train is coming our way, er
Zion train is coming our way
Two thousand years of history (history)
Could not be wiped away so easily
Two thousand years of history (black history)
Could not be wiped so easily (could not be wiped so easily)
Oh, children, Zion train is comin' our way, get on board now
They said the Zion train is comin' our way
You got a ticket, so thank the Lord
Zion's train is, Zion's train is, Zion's train is, Zion's train
They said the soul train is coming our way
They said the soul train is coming our way
The song "Zion Train" by Bob Marley & The Wailers is a call to action for people to get on board the train, a metaphor for the journey towards salvation and spiritual awakening. The refrain "Zion train is coming our way" repeats throughout the song, indicating a sense of urgency and the need for immediate action. The lyrics suggest that there is only one way to reach salvation, and that is to get on board the Zion train before it is too late.
The song highlights the importance of self-control and wisdom, stating that these values are more valuable than material possessions such as silver and gold. The lyrics also emphasize the significance of black history, suggesting that it cannot be easily wiped away despite attempts to do so.
The song's message of hope and salvation has made it a favorite among fans of reggae music. The lyrics serve as a reminder to stay focused on the spiritual journey and to not lose sight of what is truly important. The song's powerful message continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
Line by Line Meaning
Zion train is coming our way
Bob Marley is awaiting the arrival of a train that symbolizes the journey towards righteousness.
The Zion train is coming our way
The train represents the path towards spiritual enlightenment, which is soon approaching.
Oh, people, get on board (you better get on board)
Bob urges everyone to join him on the path to spiritual enlightenment without hesitation.
Thank the Lord (praise fari)
Bob is grateful for the opportunity to embark on the path towards spiritual enlightenment and acknowledges the divine force that guides him.
I gotta catch a train, 'cause there is no other station
Bob is aware that there are no other means to reach spiritual enlightenment apart from the path he is currently taking.
Then you going in the same direction (ooh-ooh)
Bob emphasizes that everyone should accompany him on the path towards spiritual enlightenment instead of walking in different directions.
Which man can save his brother's soul? (save your brother's soul)
Bob highlights that it is essential for one to help others on the path towards spiritual enlightenment and save their souls.
Oh man, it's just self control (oo-hoo-oo)
Bob suggests that self-discipline is the key to helping others on the path towards spiritual enlightenment.
Don't gain the world and lose your soul (just don't lose your soul)
Bob warns that material possessions and fame should not be the main focus in life; otherwise, one risks losing their spiritual essence.
Wisdom is better than silver and gold
Bob suggests that knowledge and enlightenment are more valuable than wealth and riches.
To the bridge (ooh, ooh)
Bob exclaims his excitement as he transitions to the next part of the song.
Oh, where there's a will
Bob states that determination and strong willpower allow one to accomplish their desired goal.
There's always a way
Bob is optimistic that, with determination, one can always find a solution to their problems.
Where there's a will
Bob repeats his belief that determination is critical in achieving success.
There's always a way (way, way, way, way)
Bob reiterates his optimism that there are always ways to achieve one's goals.
Soul train is coming our way, er
Bob references the 'Soul Train,' a metaphor for the path towards spiritual enlightenment.
Zion train is coming our way
Bob confirms the arrival of the train symbolizing the path towards spiritual enlightenment.
Two thousand years of history (history)
Bob acknowledges the rich history of his people, who have faced significant challenges despite facing discrimination and oppression.
Could not be wiped away so easily
Bob emphasizes how the struggles of his ancestors should not be forgotten and that it will take time to address and overcome the challenges that they faced.
Two thousand years of history (black history)
Bob specifically mentions the 'black history' and the struggles faced by his people in their quest for spiritual and social equality.
Could not be wiped so easily (could not be wiped so easily)
Bob stresses how the struggles of his ancestors cannot be forgotten and must be remembered, acknowledged, and addressed.
Oh, children, Zion train is comin' our way, get on board now
Bob reiterates his call for everyone, especially the youth, to join him on the path towards spiritual enlightenment without delay.
They said the Zion train is comin' our way
Bob reiterates that the arrival of the train symbolizing the path to spiritual enlightenment is imminent.
You got a ticket, so thank the Lord
Bob acknowledges that one needs faith to embark on the journey towards spiritual enlightenment and encourages people to be grateful for the opportunity.
Zion's train is, Zion's train is, Zion's train is, Zion's train
Bob repeats the phrase referring to the train symbolizing the path towards spiritual enlightenment as a reminder to stay focused and committed to the journey.
They said the soul train is coming our way
Bob uses the metaphor 'soul train' for the path towards spiritual enlightenment, reiterating its imminent arrival.
They said the soul train is coming our way
Bob repeats that the path towards spiritual enlightenment is approaching, further emphasizing that one should be ready to embark on the journey.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: BOB MARLEY
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@kikouf
Zion train is coming our way
The Zion train is coming our way
Oh, people, get on board! (You better get on board!)
Thank the Lord (Praise Fari)
I gotta catch a train, 'cause there is no other station
Then you going in the same direction (Ooh-ooh)
Zion train is coming our way
The Zion train is coming our way
Which man can save his brother's soul? (Save your brother's soul)
Oh man, it's just self control (Oo-hoo-oo!)
Don't gain the world and lose your soul (Just don't lose your soul)
Wisdom is better than silver and gold
To the bridge (Ooh-ooh!)
Oh, where there's a will
There's always a way
Where there's a will
There's always a way (Way, way, way, way)
Soul train is coming our way, er!
Zion train is coming our way
Two thousand years of history (History)
Could not be wiped away so easily
Two thousand years of history (Black history)
Could not be wiped so easily (Could not be wiped so easily)
Oh, children, Zion train is comin' our way, get on board now!
They said the Zion train is comin' our way
You got a ticket, so thank the Lord!
Zion train is
Zion train is
Zion train is
Zion train
They said the soul train is coming our way
They said the soul train is coming our way
@JustaRandomGirl19
Zion train is coming our way
The Zion train is coming our way
Oh, people, get on board (you better get on board)
Thank the Lord (praise fari)
I gotta catch a train, 'cause there is no other station
Then you going in the same direction (ooh-ooh)
Zion's train is coming our way
The Zion's train is coming our way
Which man can save his brother's soul? (save your brother's soul)
Oh man, it's just self control (oo-hoo-oo)
Don't gain the world and lose your soul (just don't lose your soul)
Wisdom is better than silver and gold
To the bridge (ooh, ooh)
Oh, where there's a will
There's always a way
Where there's a will
There's always a way (way, way, way, way)
Soul train is coming our way, er
Zion train is coming our way
Two thousand years of history (history)
Could not be wiped away so easily
Two thousand years of history (black history)
Could not be wiped so easily (could not be wiped so easily)
Oh, children, Zion train is comin' our way, get on board now
They said the Zion train is comin' our way
You got a ticket, so thank the Lord
Zion's train is, Zion's train is, Zion's train is, Zion's train
They said the soul train is coming our way
They said the soul train is coming our way
@QuartierCabs67
Le train de Sion arrive sur notre chemin
Le train Zion vient à notre rencontre
Oh, les gens, montez à bord (vous feriez mieux de monter à bord)
Remerciez le Seigneur (louange fari)
Je dois prendre un train, car il n'y a pas d'autre gare
Ensuite, vous allez dans la même direction (ooh-ooh)
Le train de Sion arrive sur notre chemin
Le train du Sion vient à notre rencontre
Quel homme peut sauver l'âme de son frère? (sauvez l'âme de votre frère)
Oh mec, c'est juste la maîtrise de soi (oo-hoo-oo)
Ne gagnez pas le monde et ne perdez pas votre âme (ne perdez pas votre âme)
La sagesse vaut mieux que l'argent et l'or
Au pont (ooh, ooh)
Oh, où il y a une volonté
Il y a toujours un moyen
Où il y a une volonté
Il y a toujours un moyen (moyen, moyen, moyen, moyen)
Le train des âmes vient à notre rencontre, euh
Le train de Sion arrive sur notre chemin
Deux mille ans d'histoire (histoire)
Ne pouvait pas être essuyé si facilement
Deux mille ans d'histoire (histoire des Noirs)
Ne pouvait pas être essuyé si facilement (ne pouvait pas être essuyé si facilement)
Oh, les enfants, le train Zion arrive, montez à bord maintenant
Ils ont dit que le train Zion arrivait dans notre direction
Tu as un billet, alors remercie le Seigneur
Le train de Zion est, Le train de Zion est, Le train de Zion est, Le train de Zion
Ils ont dit que le train des âmes venait vers nous
Ils ont dit que le train des âmes venait vers nous
@gilsonoliveira6758
Que Letra Maravilhosa ! Bob o Melhor de Todos os Tempos !
O trem de Sião está vindo na nossa direção
O trem de Sião está vindo na nossa direção
Oh, gente, suba a bordo
É melhor subir a bordo
Agradeça ao Senhor,seja louvado
Tenho de pegar este trem
Porque nã há nenhuma estação
Então você vai na mesma direção
@cuffydaniels3169
It’s 2023 and I’m still listening to his songs. They will never be another Bob Marley “rest easy legend” 🇬🇳🇯🇲
@jocal9125
never stop
@victormugo8130
2000 years of history could not be wiped away so easily. Any way continue Resting in Peace Mr Robert Nesta Marley,gone but not forgotten 👏
@jepthawilliams8413
We cannot be erased.Foundation!
@brunorodrigues6953
"Zion train is coming our way
Wisdom is better than silver and gold!!"
Great, great legend!
🇧🇷 Braziil loves you Bob ❤️🇪🇹🎶🎸🥁
@badseedzontop5687
Give it up to the wailers too, they helped write a lot of the hits. Bob just knew how to put it across. RIP❤
@kikouf
Zion train is coming our way
The Zion train is coming our way
Oh, people, get on board! (You better get on board!)
Thank the Lord (Praise Fari)
I gotta catch a train, 'cause there is no other station
Then you going in the same direction (Ooh-ooh)
Zion train is coming our way
The Zion train is coming our way
Which man can save his brother's soul? (Save your brother's soul)
Oh man, it's just self control (Oo-hoo-oo!)
Don't gain the world and lose your soul (Just don't lose your soul)
Wisdom is better than silver and gold
To the bridge (Ooh-ooh!)
Oh, where there's a will
There's always a way
Where there's a will
There's always a way (Way, way, way, way)
Soul train is coming our way, er!
Zion train is coming our way
Two thousand years of history (History)
Could not be wiped away so easily
Two thousand years of history (Black history)
Could not be wiped so easily (Could not be wiped so easily)
Oh, children, Zion train is comin' our way, get on board now!
They said the Zion train is comin' our way
You got a ticket, so thank the Lord!
Zion train is
Zion train is
Zion train is
Zion train
They said the soul train is coming our way
They said the soul train is coming our way
@pharrellmacharia
No artist can copy this naturality ❤
@shivansingh1633
Music cannot get any better
@digitalian2022
Bob Marley must be one of the most influential artist of all time.🙂💯