In a promotional interview recorded by Live Nation for the upcoming “Traffic Jam Tour” by Grammy winning Reggae stars Damian and Stephen Marley, the brothers promise to captivate audiences around the globe with their 25 year catalog of hits.
“Life is not just one thing, you don’t just live a life of romance, you don’t just live a life of religion, life is really the influence, this is who we are,” reflects Damian Marley, encapsulating the essence of their forthcoming tour. With a diverse array of influences shaping their musical journey, the Marley brothers embody a multifaceted approach to artistry that resonates with audiences worldwide.
“Touring together is nothing new for us,” Damian explains, “but this is the first one presented where it’s billed as Stephen and myself.”
Reflecting on their brotherly bond, Stephen Marley remarks, “We are very similar, we grew up together as a musical family. We have a lot of similarities in how close we are as blood brothers; this is an unconditional relationship.” Damian echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the profound connection they share. “As brothers, we are a part of each other’s lives, so therefore this (the tour) is just another outlet of that.”
Stephen Marley’s significant role in producing most of Damian Marley’s solo albums underscores the depth of their collaboration and mutual respect as artists. “Our father influenced a whole generation,” Damian acknowledges, “it’s very difficult to find a reggae musician who he has not influenced.” Bob Marley’s enduring legacy looms large over the Marley brothers’ musical journey, serving as a guiding light and source of inspiration.
With 18 stops across the United States, the tour kicked off two days after the global major motion picture premiere of the “Bob Marley: One Love” with the first stop in Long Beach, California at Cali Vibes Fest on February 16 and ending in Chicago , Illinois on March 18 at the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom.
“Our father is our mentor,” Stephen affirms, “he set the standards, the tone. We are the seeds of that fruit.” With a rich catalog of music spanning generations, the Marley brothers are poised to showcase their unparalleled chemistry on stage, drawing from their extensive repertoire of collaborations and solo projects.
The tour takes its name from a song off Stephen’s 2011 album “Mind Control,” but fans can expect new material to be featured prominently in the lineup. “We have a nice catalog of music,” Stephen explains, “in combination, he features on my records and I feature on his records. That chemistry is there.”
Watch Jamdown’s Finest: Damian “Jr. Gong” and Stephen Marley’s Traffic Jam Tour below:
