Bob Marley’s Son Damian Shares the Lessons He’s Teaching His Own Child, as the 17-Year-Old Gets More into Music (Exclusive)

Damian Marley, the youngest son of reggae legend Bob Marley, has recently shared insights into the life lessons he imparts to his teenage son, Elijah Marley, who is taking his initial steps into the world of music. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 48-year-old musician reflected on how Elijah, now 17, has always been surrounded by music from an early age.

“From he was a little child, he’s just always been around us and always been in tune and interested in what we’re doing,” stated Damian. He remarked that Elijah’s admiration for family members, especially his uncles and father, has significantly shaped his budding interest in music.

The father-son duo has collaborated on a new song, “No Better Rhythm,” showcasing Elijah’s drumming talent. Despite being in the early stages of his musical journey, Elijah has already performed alongside his Grammy Award-winning father. According to Damian, the teenager is also learning to play various instruments, including the piano and drums.

“He’s slowly getting into trying to come up with stuff for his own, but he’s been learning his instruments,” Damian explained. This collaborative project, featuring Elijah on drums, exemplifies the familial bond they share through music. While recognising Elijah’s growing musical abilities, Damian emphasised the importance of education, urging his son to prioritise his studies as he continues to develop his musical skills.

In the interview, Damian also conveyed the fundamental lesson he shares with Elijah: “Practice makes perfect. You have to keep at it.” He highlighted that the success of renowned artists often stems from years of hard work that goes unnoticed by the public. “What you don’t see is all the work that’s put in behind the scenes,” he added, underlining the importance of dedication and perseverance in the pursuit of musical excellence.

Damian reflected on his own journey into music, recalling that he began writing songs at the age of 13, often with guidance from his brother, Stephen. While the details of his first song elude him, he fondly remembers the myriad of musical influences that surrounded him during his upbringing. “I grew up with a lot of music playing in my house… the first music I really started to purchase for myself was like ‘80s dancehall music,” he shared, reminiscing about the artists that inspired him.

Despite being the son of Bob Marley, Damian stated that he did not initially feel the pressure of his father’s illustrious legacy. “You don’t really realize that until you get to be a certain age,” he explained. It was only when he began releasing music professionally that he became more aware of the expectations linked to his family name. Damian emphasised that his focus remains on creating music that represents his authentic self, rather than being burdened by external perceptions.

Throughout his career, Damian has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from hip-hop icons like Nas to pop stars such as Bruno Mars and Mick Jagger. His most recent collaboration with Jamaican artist Masicka on “1 Psalm” reflects his enthusiasm for integrating fresh perspectives into his music. “Young people are full of new ideas,” he noted, expressing his commitment to supporting and uplifting emerging talent within the music industry.

As headliner of this year’s Jamrock Reggae Cruise, which he co-founded in 2014, Damian aims to showcase the entire spectrum of reggae music, from its elders to the latest artists. This year’s cruise, scheduled from November 11 to 16, promises a five-day immersive experience aboard the Norwegian Joy, featuring live performances, Jamaican cuisine, and fitness classes, among other activities.

“The whole point of the cruise is really to introduce people to our home and our culture,” Damian articulated. He described the event as a “reggae Disneyland,” where attendees can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythm and heritage of Jamaican music. While hinting at the potential for expanding the cruise’s reach in the future, he affirmed that its essence will always remain rooted in Jamaica.

In sharing these insights, Damian Marley not only highlights the intergenerational ties that bind his family but also embodies the values of hard work and passion that have defined their legacy in reggae music. As Elijah begins to carve out his own path, he stands on the shoulders of giants, ready to step into a world rich with both history and possibility.