Bob Marley is often overlooked when listing the great freedom fighters of our time. Duane Forrest’s storytelling places Marley firmly among the legends as the man who single-handedly brought a tiny Caribbean island into the world’s spotlight and gave a voice to generations of Black immigrants.
Doctors should prescribe it as an antidepressant
Duane Forrest was born to carry on Bob Marley’s legacy to new audiences. Growing up in Scarborough, Ontario, as the son of Jamaican immigrant parents, he faced challenges in a tough, predominantly white neighbourhood. His struggle with identity connects his life to Marley’s.
Forrest is an exceptional storyteller, educator, minister and human being. His unique sound blends jazz, reggae, soul and smooth vocals. Where others might shout, he whispers, adding his own distinctive touch to Marley’s hits.
The show provides an intimate and thought-provoking complement to the energetic West End musical Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical. Acoustic versions of Marley’s hits focus on the message, while the gentle sing-along format beautifully immerses the audience in the soulful melodies and transformative power of reggae.
Even for a seasoned reggae fan like me, who has had the privilege of seeing The Wailers live, the show offered new insights into reggae’s early days and societal influences. Those less familiar with reggae learn the key concepts from "irie" to Mount Zion and Babylon. As Duane Forrest said, "Reggae is much more than smoking weed."
Duane Forrest’s smile could light up a stadium, let alone the intimate venue where he performed. His warmth and positive vibes captivated us all. Even though I saw the show’s preview, I wouldn’t change a single note. You’ll get to sing along to your favourite Bob Marley songs and some surprise numbers influenced by reggae music, while learning about reggae as a cultural phenomenon. My all-time favourite, Redemption Song, provides a touching finale to this outstanding show.
Did reggae change the world? Perhaps not, as the songs are as topical today as they were forty years ago. But it certainly changed Duane Forrest’s life and helped him believe in his dreams. So the magic of Bob Marley lives on. The show left me feeling so irie that doctors should prescribe it as an antidepressant.
