By Patience Moses Chat
Contributions of Jamaican music legend, Robert Nesta Marley, popularly known as Bob Marley, is set to continue years after his demise with the “Africa Unite” album
A majestic, posthumous album celebrating the vibrant fusion of Reggae and Afrobeats, “Africa Unite” is an extraordinary album that pays homage to the Reggae icon’s greatest hits, beautifully reimagined and infused with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats.
The album, which was released on August 4, 2023, features inspiring collaborations between Bob Marley’s classics and a stellar lineup of contemporary African musicians, with Nigerians standing out on the list.
In a majestic celebration of musical harmony, the posthumous album, ‘Africa Unite,’ pays tribute to the legendary Bob Marley’s enduring influence, seamlessly blending the rich sounds of Reggae and the vibrant rhythms of Afrobeats.
The album, which is a ten-track masterpiece brings together some of Africa’s greatest artists, including Rema, Ayra Starr, Tiwa Savage, Teni, and Oxlade, who gracefully lent their unique flair and artistry to Marley’s iconic compositions.
‘Africa Unite’ serves as a resounding testament to Marley’s global impact, bridging borders and generations with his ageless music. The project artfully reimagines Marley’s greatest hits, breathing new life into them by infusing the infectious energy of Afrobeats.
Among the enchanting renditions is ‘Waiting In Vain,’ which receives a heartwarming touch, while the iconic ‘Stir It Up’ exudes uplifting energy. The melodious ‘Three Little Birds’ captivates with its soulful rendition, creating an irresistible tapestry of sounds that will captivate listeners.
Adding a contemporary twist, the 4th official single, ‘Them Belly Full (But We Hungry),’ features Rema and Skip Marley and resonates with its thought-provoking lyrics that address inequality.
‘Africa Unite’ stands as a testament to the unifying power of music, symbolizing the timeless appeal of Bob Marley’s work that transcends time and cultural boundaries. The album captures the essence of Reggae and Afrobeats, seamlessly uniting the soulful vibrations of Reggae with the vibrant energy of Afrobeats.
While speaking on the significance of the album, Cedella Marley, daughter of Bob Marley, expressed her sentiments, saying that “‘Africa Unite’ showcases the importance of Bob Marley in modern-day Africa. The artists on this album have reimagined his classics in a way we know he would have loved and been proud of.”
She noted that the album is a testament to the enduring impact of Bob Marley’s music on global audiences and celebrates the rich tapestry of African rhythms and melodies.
Also, Skip Marley Minto, Bob’s grandson who is known for topping the Billboard charts and speaking to a generation, expressed his excitement about remaking his grandfather’s hit.
His words: “When I first heard the final version of ‘Them Belly Full,’ featuring Rema, I was ecstatic! Working alongside any African artist is ecstatic for me, because that’s what it’s really about: Africa. I was very grateful for the opportunity.”
The single is sure to get listeners on their dancing feet, setting the stage for the immersive experience that awaits the Africa Unite album.