Reggae enthusiasts pay tribute to Bob Marley

On Friday night, hundreds gathered to sing Bob Marleys songs and pay tribute to the fallen reggae musician at White Horse. Friday marked the anniversary of Marleys passing on 11 May 1981. Local reggae singer, Natty Dread, led the crowd to sway and chant to Marleys lyrics, accompanied by the Holy Jah Doves band and DJ Jacob.“Im very excited. There are a lot of people who have turned up, more than I expected,” said Natty Dread, “Theres a lot of respect for Bob Marley. Right now, wherever he is, he must be very happy.”Kigalians came out en masse to pay homage to the prolific singer, whose message of peace, love, and unity continues to resonate deeply within many communities and societies. In addition to the live band concert at White Horse, Shooters Bar in Kacyiru and One Love also hosted performances that featured Marleys music.When asked about the significance and appeal of Marleys legacy, Natty Dread responded, “All People know Marleys music. And when they hear the musicians play together and dance to the same music, its a kind of togetherness. Marley is supposed to bring people together like a family.”The “Tribute to Bob Marley” was organised by Jean-Pierre Kalonda, a promoter for RwandaJazzFestival. Kalonda called the event a success and underscored the importance of Marleys message.“We need love in Rwanda, we need love in Africa,” said Kalonda. “When there is unity and love, there is no war.”Natty Dread was encouraged by the diverse crowd of Marley enthusiasts and asserted that future Marley concerts in Kigali will continue to draw more and more people to reggae music.“If people take time and listen and think, theyll find that Marley is beneficial to them,” said Natty Dread. “Marley is supposed to warm people, bring a new spirit in people. Reggae was created to make people feel happy, warm, loving towards one another.” The proliferation of concerts and events in Kigali featuring Marleys music, and reggae in general, indicates that reggae is growing in popularity among Kigalians.“Theres unity among the people, a true one love,” said Natty Dread “Lets get together and feel all right.”

Leisure

Reggae enthusiasts pay tribute to Bob Marley