Jamaica marks Marley's birthday (From Hampshire Chronicle)
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Jamaica marks Marley's birthday
7:59pm Wednesday 6th February 2013 in National Entertainment News © Press Association 2013
A mural depicting reggae music icon Bob Marley at his Kingston home, in Jamaica (AP)
Hundreds of tourists have joined Rastafarian priests and reggae musicians at Bob Marley's old house in Jamaica to mark the 68th anniversary of the late reggae star's birth.
Since his death from cancer in 1981, Marley has become more than just Jamaica's most famous musical export. His message of unity and respect remains a beacon of hope in the Caribbean nation which is struggling with joblessness and violence.
Some of Marley's relatives and friends danced and chanted to the pounding of drums in the yard of his Kingston home, which is now a museum.
Culture Minister Lisa Hanna said his lyrics still call for Jamaicans to create a "more wholesome, caring, peaceful and progressive society".
Marley's popularity remains strong across the globe, and his music continues to sell steadily.
