Your culture
only the bare minimum about such a stalwart and legend in our history. Most know few songs, his home; the museum but many can’t tell you where he was born or even one of his many achievements. He has put Jamaica on the map and in the hearts of many…,” Herdsman, a tourism management major added.
At the same time, the students interviewed by the
had reasonable knowledge about Marley who died in May 1981 at age 36.
“Bob Marley was a
Observer
Jamaican singer, songwriter and musician who contributed a lot to the reggae genre and also put Jamaica on the map. He had good vocals and amazing lyrical styles. My knowledge of him is quite okay, I also know about his parents…,” said Gordon, a history and archaeology student.
Meanwhile, Boswell praised Marley, whom he described as being instrumental in Jamaica’s cultural development.
“Well, he did all three genres, ska, rocksteady and reggae. He contributed to reggae and Rastafari going global, which ultimately resulted in much exposure of Jamaican culture. Basically, this exposure sparked increased interest, which helped to develop the nation economically and socially. He created an avenue for those who would come after him. He was our very own superstar. So, I’d say he contributed to the musical legacy,” he said.
Herdsman added that Marley’s legacy has contributed massively to the tourism industry being Jamaica’s leading earner of foreign exchange.
“His contribution to tourism in Jamaica, which is currently the mainstay of our economy is immeasurable. Tourists from across the world see Bob as the face of our tourism, especially in niche markets such as culture and heritage tourism. They are fascinated by his life and travel to Jamaica to gain valuable knowledge about him,” she said.