Reggae's most iconic figure, Bob Marley was the first Jamaican artist to achieve international superstardom. Click below for Bob Marley links.

Why Jamaica Should Make Bob Marley A National Hero by Falana Fray

BOB MARLEY
New biography, Garry Steckles follows Marley's eventful life through the early days in rural Jamaica, arrival in Kingston, first recordings and performances to his spectacular status as an international superstar.

Bob Marley Facts

Robert Nesta Marley was born February 6, 1945

His father was Welsh army officer Norval St. Clair Marley and his mother was black Jamaican grocer Cedella Malcolm.

Marley was awarded the International Peace Medal by the African delegation to the United Nations in 1978.

Survived an assassination attempt in 1976.

His posthumously released anthology collection "Legend" is one of the highest selling "greatest hits" recordings by a solo artist.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.

Died of cancer May 11, 1981 in Miami's Cedars of Lebanon Hospital.

Bob Marley is buried with his favorite guitar, a cherry red Fender Stratocaster.

His birthday declared as a national holiday in Jamaica (February 1990).

Ranked 13th on Forbes' 6th annual Top-Earning Dead Celebrities list conducted in the year of 2006.