AI Overview

The harrowing story of Bob Marley's assassination attempt

On December 3, 1976, seven armed men attacked Bob Marley at his home in Kingston, Jamaica, in a politically motivated attempt to stop him from performing at the "Smile Jamaica" concert. Marley, his wife Rita, and manager Don Taylor were shot and injured, but all survived. Two days after the attack, Marley performed as scheduled at the free concert, despite his injuries.

The attack: On the night of December 3, 1976, gunmen stormed Marley's house at 56 Hope Road. Seven men entered the home and fired shots.

The victims: Bob Marley was shot in the chest and arm, his wife Rita was shot in the head, and their manager Don Taylor was shot in the legs and torso.

Marley's response: Despite being wounded, Marley agreed to perform at the "Smile Jamaica" concert on December 5, which was organized by the prime minister to ease political tensions. He played a full 90-minute set, famously stating, "The people who are trying to make this world worse aren't taking a day off. How can I?".

Aftermath: The attack was politically motivated, intended to prevent Marley from performing at a concert that was seen as a show of support for the prime minister.

Later years: A bullet remained in Marley's arm until his death in 1981, as removing it risked damaging his fingers.