Stephen Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, has joined forces with Playing For Change to reimagine the iconic 1974 hit “No Woman, No Cry,” per rollingstone.com.
This global collaboration, featuring Brazilian music icon Gilberto Gil and 22 musicians from 10 countries, marks the song’s 50th anniversary and showcases the enduring power of Bob Marley’s music.
The project, part of Playing For Change’s Song Around The World series, began modestly on the streets of Italy with a steel guitar and a click track. It has since evolved into a multinational tribute, bringing together diverse talents from across the globe. Stephen Marley expressed his honour in participating, noting the friendship between his father and Gilberto Gil, and emphasising the continuation of their shared musical legacy.
Gilberto Gil, who recorded his part in Rio de Janeiro, praised the project as a beautiful tribute to Bob Marley. Having released his own version of the song in 1979, Gil highlighted how the music continues to unite people and inspire hope.
The collaboration features an impressive lineup of international artistes, including Argentinian guitarist Adrian Buono, Jamaican drummer Courtney “Bam” Diedrick, Brazilian bassist Alana Alberg and Japanese organ player Keiko Komaki. This diverse ensemble underscores the universal appeal of Marley’s music and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
Speaking on the project’s significance, Playing For Change co-founder Mark Johnson said, “Everywhere you go, someone is playing the music of Bob Marley.” He sees this version as a tribute to Marley’s worldwide legacy and a unifying anthem for the future.
The “No Woman, No Cry” project is set to feature on Playing For Change’s upcoming album, “Songs For Humanity,” continuing their mission of connecting the world through music.
