Although your work is attached to children, what words do you have for other musicians to attach themselves to other social causes? What do you think it is about music that makes it a powerful force to get those kinds of ideas across?
Music is the language we speak and it's global. It spreads wide and it can go wide to many places. Individual drive is important, but it has to be something on a bigger level than self. It's the individual who makes the music. I don't think every artist can do the same thing I do. You don't have to. Anybody in their own life can affect the world in some way. Either they affect a change in himself or help others outside of himself. Everybody plays a part.
On "This Train," you noted that your father used to sing that song when you were young and has, ever since, "lingered" in your soul. How important was it for you to record "This Train" and place it on Family Time?
The only reason I did that song was because my father did a version of it. But the song that I have the most attachment to is the song "Hold Em Joe." Every time I think about, it carries me back in time when I first started singing on stage.
You also recorded a rendition of your father's "Three Little Birds" and it's been featured in a lot of the programming that you've been working with, including Dora the Explorer. Why do you think so many people and children gravitate toward that song?
The message – what it's saying is very light and simple and positive. My father always said, when you make songs, make a song that even the children can understand. He had a lot of children, so he had some practice. There's no surprise there.
What do you think is the greatest lesson you've learned professionally?
Professionally, just to make music, man, to make music. Have your own identity. Set your own path, you know. This is the only way a true artist must be.
What do you consider to be your legacy?
Love is my legacy. Love is my religion. That is my legacy. That is the message.
Speaking of Love Is My Religion, that particular album received a "Best Reggae Album" GRAMMY in 2007. Does that particular win bring any special memories to your mind?
Article comments
1 - Kit O'Toole
Ziggy Marley continues to grow in his career and develop his own style, while of course staying true to his father's sound and message. Great interview, Clayton! For those who'd like to view my recent review of "Family Time" and a look back at "Conscious Party".
2 - carlton williams
you're everything bob wanted and more keep on keepin on,one love/heard me!!!!!!!!!!!!!
3 - rwedddog
remember rita had part in that also!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
4 - sean lewis
when are the melody makers getting back together to do an album and a tour. i would love to take my 13 year old daughter to see them live. we love their music.
5 - Ray Salmon
Nuf Respect to Ziggy, keep di good nature of your father alive. I was born in Kingston Jamaica & love the vibes di Marley family bring to music.