Twentieth Century Fox Animation and Polygram Entertainment (of Universal Music Group) have announced a partnership to develop an animated feature film based on the songs of Jamaican singer-songwriter legend Bob Marley on what would have been his 73rd birthday, Variety reports. Kenya Barris (Black-ish, Girls Trip) is writing and producing under his Khalablo In Society banner as part of his overall deal with Fox.
Described as “an animated musical love letter to the late Marley’s legendary music and to the people of Jamaica,” the project was announced by Fox Animation Co-Presidents Andrea Miloro and Robert Baird, who stated: “We not only have the opportunity to build new relationships for the studio, but we get to tell a story, inspired by the music of Bob Marley, one of the greatest music legends of our time.”
“My father has inspired art and artists around the world and I’m excited to embark on a new creative venture that highlights his incredible music,” commented Bob & Rita Marley’s daughter, Cedella Marley, who is producing the untitled project with Polygram head David Blackman and Principato-Young’s E. Brian Dobbins. “We are thrilled to work with Kenya Barris and David Blackman on this project as well as a Fox Animation who gave us this platform to introduce a new generation to my father’s music.”
Robert Nesta Marley was born on his grandfather’s farm in Jamaica on February 6, 1945. His journey to becoming an internationally famous singer, songwriter and musician began in 1963 with pioneering reggae group The Wailers. When they disbanded in 1974, Marley relocated to England and pursued a solo career, making his name with the release of Exodus in 1977. Sadly, he was diagnosed with skin cancer that same year. Marley became one of the all-time best selling music artists in the world, topping 75 million records sold. His music incorporated reggae, ska and rocksteady influences and often reflected his Rastafarian spirituality. He died in Miami in 1981 at just 36 years old.
[Source: Variety]