Bob Marley's early musical influences include American singers such as Fats Domino, Ray Charles, and Curtis Mayfield. He found further inspiration from Jamaican ska, rocksteady, and reggae musicians such as Alton Ellis, Laurel Aitken, and Joe Higgs, who also lived in Trenchtown. While still in school, Marley began singing with a group of friends: Bunny Wailer, Peter Tosh, Junior Braithwaite, Beverley Kelso, and Cherry Smith. In 1962, the group caught the attention of record producer Clement "Sir Coxsone" Dodd, who gave them a chance to record their first single, "One Cup of Coffee". The single became a local hit, but the group split up shortly after.
The Wailers
In 1963, Bob Marley, Bunny Wailer, and Peter Tosh formed a new group, The Wailers. They recorded several singles for Coxsone Dodd's Studio One label, including the hits "Simmer Down" and "Rude Boy". In 1966, Chris Blackwell of Island Records signed the Wailers and produced their debut album, _Catch a Fire_. The album was a critical and commercial success, launching Marley and the Wailers onto the international music scene.
International Success
The Wailers released several more albums in the 1970s, including _Exodus_, which is considered by many to be their masterpiece. The album features the hit singles "One Love" and "No Woman, No Cry". The Wailers also toured extensively during the 1970s, spreading their message of peace, love, and unity around the world. Bob Marley became a global superstar and reggae became one of the most popular genres of music in the world.
Death
Bob Marley died of cancer in 1981 at the age of 36. He is still considered one of the most influential and iconic musicians of all time. His music continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.