Detour

The Bob Marley museum in Kingston, Jamaica, celebrates not just the musician but the man

By DETOUR Staff
The Bob Marley Museum was declared a protected National Heritage site on May 31, 2001.
The Bob Marley Museum was declared a protected National Heritage site on May 31, 2001. Photos by Lianna Johnson

As a man whose life worked in tandem with his music to uplift the value of peace and combat poverty, injustice, violence and oppression, it is fitting that the museum dedicated to Bob Marley’s legacy is spread across two locations: his home and his recording studio. Visitors to Kingston, Jamaica, can find themselves face to face with the musician in the various brightly colored murals and animated statues that fill the grounds.

The entrance to Marley’s former home on 56 Hope Road. It was transformed into a museum and opened to the public on May 11, 1986.
The entrance to Marley’s former home on 56 Hope Road. It was transformed into a museum and opened to the public on May 11, 1986. Photos by Lianna Johnson

His home, which has been preserved since his death in 1981, displays both elements of his daily life, like his bedroom and clothing, as well as testaments to his musical genius, like his Grammy Lifetime Achievement award and the 3D hologram used to project his image at the 1978 One Love Peace concert.

The portion of the tour dedicated to his recording practice takes place in the legendary Tuff Gong recording studio and gives visitors an in-depth introduction to the entire music-making process including a step-by-step guided journey through the making of a vinyl record. There are a number of instruments that have been used in some of the world’s most famous reggae recordings, including Marley’s personal grand piano.

Lyrics from Marley’s songs are plastered on the walls of the museum. This part of the house is where Marley was shot in 1976, and the bullet hole can still be seen inside.
Lyrics from Marley’s songs are plastered on the walls of the museum. This part of the house is where Marley was shot in 1976, and the bullet hole can still be seen inside. Photos by Lianna Johnson

This destination offers something for every visitor whether they be technically inclined, spiritually motivated or full of potent nostalgia. Tours run every half hour from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and are described as accessible for those with collapsible wheelchairs and strollers.

This story was originally published June 30, 2022 at 9:00 AM.

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