How Many Kids Did Bob Marley Have?
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA - MARCH 12, 2018 in West Hollywood: Julian Marley, Stephen Marley and Damian Marley (Photo by SCOTT DUDELSON/GETTY IMAGES
Bob Marley's Legacy: Exploring the Lives of His Eleven Children
In the heartbeat of Jamaican rhythms and the echoes of reggae’s soulful chords, Bob Marley, born on February 6, 1945, in the village of Nine Mile, transcended the boundaries of music to become a global icon. His legacy, etched in melodies like “No Woman, No Cry” and “One Love,” extends far beyond the shores of his homeland.
Marley’s journey, marked by a tumultuous rise to fame, laid the foundation for an extraordinary family tale. Beyond the stage lights, Marley left behind a profound familial tapestry, encompassing at least eleven children, each weaving their own unique thread into the rich fabric of his enduring influence.
As we embark on a journey through the lives of Marley’s offspring, we unravel not just the number of his progeny but the distinct narratives, accomplishments, and contributions that make up the symphony of the Marley lineage.
The Marley Matriarch: Rita Marley
In 1966, Bob Marley married Rita Marley (née Alfarita Constantia Anderson), a talented singer born in Cuba and raised in Kingston, Jamaica. Rita, who had been part of a group called the Soulettes mentored by Marley, played a significant role in his musical journey. The couple faced challenges, including an assassination attempt in 1976 and extra-marital affairs on both sides of their marriage.
Despite the trials, Rita continued to contribute to the music scene after Marley’s death in 1981. She transformed their former home in Kingston into the Bob Marley Museum and became the founder and chairperson of the Bob Marley Trust. Beyond music, Rita Marley has been a philanthropist, supporting students in Ghana and addressing hunger in developing countries through the Rita Marley Foundation.
Rita Marley has six children, three with Bob Marley and three from other relationships.
Sharon Marley: The Eldest and Grammy Winner
Born in 1964 to Rita Marley and adopted by Bob Marley when he married Rita in 1966, Sharon Marley is the eldest of the Marley children. A member of Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, Sharon, along with her siblings, won three Grammy Awards. She has played a crucial role as the curator and manager of the Bob Marley Museum and worked in public relations for the Ghetto Youth United Recording Label.
Cedella Marley: CEO and Philanthropist
The CEO of Tuff Gong International, Cedella Marley, born in 1967, is Bob and Rita Marley’s daughter and first-born child. In addition to managing the recording label started by her father, she has ventured into the fashion industry, collaborated with Puma to design the Jamaican track and field team’s uniform at the 2012 Olympics, and authored children’s books inspired by her father.
In a 2016 interview with GQ, Cedella emphasized her role in the family businesses, stating, “whatever business ventures we get into, I’m the one who has to deal with whoever we partner with on a day-to-day basis.”
Ziggy Marley: Musical Prodigy and Grammy Winner
David Nesta “Ziggy” Marley, born in 1968, is Bob Marley’s oldest son. Ziggy emerged as a musical prodigy, beginning his career at the age of 11 with the Melody Makers. Ziggy’s success extended beyond the family band, earning him eight Grammy Awards and one Daytime Emmy. His solo career, marked by eight albums under his label Tuff Gong Worldwide, showcases a diverse musical influence.
After the death of his father, Ziggy often played alongside the Wailers, further solidifying his musical legacy. Ziggy Marley is also a published author of several children’s books, a comic book (MARIJUANAMAN), and his own cook book.
Stephen Marley: Music Festival Founder and Grammy Winner
Born in 1972, Stephen “Ragga” Robert Nesta Marley is the third child of Bob and Rita Marley. Like his siblings, he started his musical career with Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers at the age of 7. Apart from his success as a solo artist with eight Grammy Awards, Stephen founded the annual music festival Kaya Fest in 2017. Stephen is Bob and Rita’s last child together
Robert "Robbie" Marley: Stunt Man
Robert, commonly known as “Robbie” Marley, was born on May 16, 1972, with Pat Williams as his mother. Robbie’s birth occurred just within a month after the arrival of his brother Stephen, making him the initial offspring of Bob Marley in a line of many with different women. Information about his mother, Pat “Lucille” Williams, remains somewhat elusive, given that Robbie was raised in the care of Bob and Rita. Opting for a different trajectory than his musical family, Robbie has chosen to remain away from the public eye, embracing a career as a motorcycle stunt rider.
Karen Marley: Fashion Designer
Karen is the third biological daughter of Bob Marley. She was born in England in 1973 as the result of a brief affair between her mother, Janet Bowen, also known as ‘Janet from England,’ and the legendary singer. Despite her English birthplace, Karen’s upbringing unfolded in Jamaica, where she attended school alongside the rest of Bob Marley’s children. Today, she has embraced her passion for fashion, actively collaborating with various fashion lines and clothing stores.
Stephanie Marley
Stephanie’s entry into the Marley family narrative traces back to Rita Marley’s connection (affair) with a man named Ital “Tacky” Stewart, a former Jamaican soccer player. Stephanie Marley was born August, 17th, 1974 and despite the unconventional beginnings, Bob Marley chose to adopt and raise her alongside his other children. This unique family dynamic has solidified Stephanie’s place as one of the acknowledged “offspring” of Bob Marley.
Rohan Marley: Athlete & Entrepreneur
Rohan Anthony Marley, born May 19, 1972, is a Jamaican entrepreneur and former college football player, is recognized as a son of iconic reggae artist Bob Marley. Raised by Janet Hunt and shuttling between parental homes until his father’s passing in 1981, Rohan graduated from Miami Palmetto Senior High School in 1991 and played as a linebacker for the University of Miami football team. Transitioning to professional football with the Ottawa Rough Riders, he later co-founded Marley Coffee, emphasizing sustainable farming. Rohan also introduced the ‘House of Marley‘ eco-friendly headphone line, contributing to the family’s charitable work through 1Love.
Julian Marley: Grammy-Nominated Artist and Olympian Representative
Julian “JuJu” Ricardo Marley, born in London in 1975, is the son of Bob Marley and Lucy Pounder. His musical journey began at a remarkably young age, recording his first demo by the age of 5. Julian represented Jamaica at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and has released four solo albums, two of which received Grammy nominations for Best Reggae Album. Julian Marley is recognized as a devout Rastafarian, many elements of which are prominent in his music.
Ky-Mani Marley: Actor and Grammy Nominee Artist
Born in 1976 to Bob Marley and Anita Belnavis, Ky-Mani Marley is a versatile reggae, dancehall and hip-hop artist. His debut album, “Like Father, Like Son,” released in 1996, received critical acclaim. In 2001, his album “Many More Roads” earned him a Grammy nomination. Ky-Mani has also been featured in several major movies, including lead roles in popular Jamaican films, Shottas and One Love.
Damian Marley: Multiple Grammy Winner and Philanthropist
Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley was born in 1978 to Bob Marley and musician/beauty queen Cindy Breakspeare. He is the youngest and final child of Bob Marley. Damian embarked on a successful solo career with albums like “Halfway Tree,” “Welcome to Jamrock,” and “Stony Hill.” He is also widely recognizd for his many collaborative efforts, including a collaboration with Nas on “Distant Relatives” in 2010. Damian has already secured four Grammy Awards, showcasing his unique blend of reggae and dancehall sounds.
Bob Marley's 11 Children
In exploring the lives of Bob Marley’s eleven children, we witness not only the diverse talents within the family but also the enduring impact of their father’s musical legacy. From Grammy-winning musicians to philanthropists, each Marley has carved a unique path while carrying forward the spirit of reggae and social consciousness embodied by Bob Marley.
