Ziggy Marley, the Grammy-winning reggae artist and son of the legendary Bob Marley, recently sat down with Billboard at his favorite vegan spot, Crossroads Kitchen in Los Angeles, for a candid conversation about his new album, Brightside.
As soon as we sit down, Ziggy’s warm smile and bright energy fill the room. It’s clear that he is passionate about his music and eager to share the inspiration behind his latest project. “I wanted to make an album that reflects my current state of mind,” he says. “I am at a place in my life where I am constantly looking for the bright side, the positive side of things. And that’s what this album is all about.”
Brightside, which was released earlier this year, is Ziggy’s seventh solo studio album. He reveals that the making of this album was a deeply personal and introspective journey. “I took a different approach with this album. I wanted to really tap into my emotions and be vulnerable. It was a cathartic experience for me,” he shares.
One of the most unique aspects of Brightside is that it was recorded entirely in 432 Hz, as opposed to the standard 440 Hz used in most music. “I’ve always been interested in the power of sound and frequencies. And after researching, I found that 432 Hz has a calming and healing effect on the mind and body. It just felt right for this album,” Ziggy explains.
The album features a diverse mix of songs, ranging from upbeat reggae tracks to more introspective and soulful ballads. But one song, in particular, stands out as a tribute to Ziggy’s father and reggae icon, Bob Marley. Titled “Play with Sky”, the song captures the essence of Bob’s message of love and unity. “I wanted to honor my father’s legacy but also make it my own. The song is about carrying on his message of love and hope, but in my own way,” Ziggy shares.
Growing up as the son of a music legend, Ziggy admits that he felt pressure to live up to his father’s legacy. But he has since found his own voice and purpose in the music industry. “I’ve learned to embrace my own identity and not try to be like my father. I am my own person and I have my own story to tell,” he says with a sense of conviction.
Ziggy’s passion for music and his commitment to spreading a positive message are evident in every aspect of the album. He hopes that his music will inspire listeners to find their own bright side, even in the midst of difficult times. “We are living in a time where there is so much negativity and division in the world. I want my music to be a source of light and positivity for people,” he explains.
As our conversation comes to an end, Ziggy leaves us with a message of hope and unity. “We are all connected through music. It transcends borders, language, and culture. And that’s what I want to achieve with my music – to bring people together,” he says with a smile.
With Brightside, Ziggy Marley has once again proven himself as a talented and versatile artist. His ability to infuse his music with positivity and soulful lyrics is truly remarkable. And as we listen to the album, we can’t help but feel uplifted and inspired by his words. Ziggy’s music is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a bright side waiting to be discovered.
