7 Facts About Bob Marley That His Family Didn't Want Anyone To Know

7 Facts About Bob Marley That His Family Didn't Want Anyone To Know

No one would argue that Rastafarian Reggae Superstar Bob Marley captivated audiences worldwide. However, there were still some things that his family wanted to keep secret. Thanks to the Internet those secrets are out.

1. Bob Marley Wasn't His Real Name

Bob Marley’s original name was Nesta Robert Marley but his middle and first name were swapped around to preserve his masculinity after a comment was made that Nesta was seen as a girl’s name.

2. Bob Marley's Birth Date Was Not April 6th, 1945

Bob was actually born on the 6th of February, 1945, it took his mother a while to finally get him officially registered. The date on his birth certificate was incorrect. It says that he was born on the 6th of April, 1945.

3. Bob Marley Used To Be A Palm Reader

From the age of four it was discovered Bob Marley could read palms. When Cedella (Bob’s mother) first heard of this from relatives and neighbors, she took it as a joke. When Bob’s palm readings actually came true his mother was left in shock. Years later Bob returned to Kingston, and a woman asked him to read her palm, he replied: “I’m not reading no more hand: I’m singing now.”

4. Bob Marley Was Known By The Name "White Boy"

In Kingston, Bob Marley was known by the natives as a “white boy”. Because he had a white father, Bob always felt that he had something to prove. This made Bob feel very alienated although it ended up serving him in the long run. He was forced to build up his confidence and self-esteem, turning him into the man he was.

5. Bob Marley Dropped Out of School To Become A Welder

If Bob Marley would have continued his career in welding the world may not have ever heard of him.

6. Bob Marley Arrested For Marijuana Possession

After being arrested for possession of marijuana, the singer spent a month in prison, during which time he met many prisoners that he formed strong relationships with. These prisoners motivated him to write songs with a more political message.

7. Largest Record Label In The Caribbean

The record label Tuff Gong was set up by Bob. It was named after his self-made nickname. This record label now boasts one of the largest audio recording facilities in the Caribbean.