How Did Bob Marley Die?
Bob Marley died of Melanoma (skin cancer that spread to brain) on May 11, 1981, at age 36.
What was Bob Marley's cause of death?
Bob Marley was diagnosed with melanoma under his toenail in 1977. He declined amputation due to Rastafari beliefs. The cancer spread to his brain, lungs, and stomach. He died on May 11, 1981, at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in Miami at age 36. His final words to his son Ziggy were: 'Money can't buy life.'
How old was Bob Marley when they died?
Bob Marley was 36 years old at the time of death.
When did Bob Marley die?
Bob Marley died on May 11, 1981.
Bob Marley Biography
Robert Nesta Marley was born on February 6, 1945, in Nine Mile, Jamaica. He formed the Wailers in the early 1960s and became the first global superstar from the developing world. His albums like Exodus introduced reggae to international audiences and carried messages of social justice and Rastafarian spirituality.
Personal Life
Who are Bob Marley's parents?
Norval Sinclair Marley, Cedella Booker
Was Bob Marley married?
Bob Marley was married once, to Rita Anderson (1966–N/A).
Did Bob Marley have children?
Bob Marley had 8 children: Ziggy Marley, Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, Julian Marley, Ky-Mani Marley, Cedella Marley, Sharon Marley, Rohan Marley.
What religion was Bob Marley?
Bob Marley was Rastafari.
What was Bob Marley's ethnicity?
Bob Marley was of Afro-Jamaican, English heritage.
Career Highlights
Albums
- Catch a Fire (1973)
- Burnin (1973)
- Natty Dread (1974)
- Exodus (1977)
- Kaya (1978)
- Uprising (1980)
Awards
- Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (posthumous)
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Facts About Bob Marley
- Exodus was named album of the century by Time magazine
- He was shot in an assassination attempt in 1976 but performed two days later
- He has at least 11 children by multiple women
- He refused toe amputation when melanoma was first found, citing Rastafari beliefs
Bob Marley Quotes
"One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain."
"Money can't buy life."
Legacy
Bob Marley is the most celebrated reggae musician in history. Songs like One Love and Redemption Song transcend generations. The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston is one of the most visited sites in the Caribbean. His estate generates over $23 million annually.
Sources
Last verified: 2026-05-19