Rita Marley is one of reggae’s most influential and enduring figures. Known worldwide as the wife of Bob Marley, she is far more than a supporting figure — she is a pioneering artist, cultural ambassador, and philanthropist. Over the decades, Rita has embodied the heart and soul of Jamaican music, shaping the message of love, unity, and faith that made reggae a global phenomenon.
Her powerful vocals, spiritual depth, and dedication to humanitarian causes have earned her the title of the “Queen of Reggae.” Even today, at nearly 80 years old, Rita Marley remains an emblem of resilience and inspiration for generations of artists and fans alike.
Who Is Rita Marley?
Born Alpharita Constantia Anderson on July 25, 1946, in Santiago de Cuba, and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, journey from humble beginnings to global icon is nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up in the Trenchtown district of Kingston, she was exposed to the rich sounds of ska, gospel, and R&B — all of which influenced her musical style.
In her teenage years, she joined a local girl group called The Soulettes. Around this time, she met a young, aspiring musician named Bob Marley. Their shared passion for music and faith soon blossomed into a partnership that would change both of their lives — and the world’s musical landscape — forever.
Rita’s early life and spiritual upbringing grounded her in the Rastafarian faith, shaping her worldview and her commitment to community and compassion. Her ability to balance her role as a wife, mother, and musician made her one of the most admired women in reggae history.
Rita Marley’s Musical Journey
Early Beginnings and The Soulettes
first step into music came with The Soulettes, a female vocal group that gained local popularity in the 1960s. Under producer Clement “Coxsone” Dodd at Studio One, The Soulettes recorded several singles, setting Rita on a professional musical path.
Joining The I-Threes
Her musical breakthrough came in the 1970s when she became one-third of The I-Threes, the legendary female backing trio for Bob Marley & The Wailers. Alongside Judy Mowatt and Marcia Griffiths, Rita’s harmonies brought a soulful, feminine balance to Bob’s powerful lyrics. Songs like “No Woman, No Cry”, “Jamming”, and “Exodus” feature her unmistakable voice.
Solo Career and Humanitarian Music
After Bob Marley’s passing in 1981, Rita carried forward his message through her own solo albums such as “Who Feels It Knows It” (1981) and “Harambe” (1988). Her music often reflected her Rastafarian beliefs, emphasizing themes of faith, motherhood, and African identity. She also recorded “One Draw”, which became a reggae classic, further solidifying her status as a solo artist.
Rita Marley Children
The matriarch of one of the most talented and influential families in music history. She is the mother of six children, three of whom she shared with Bob Marley, while others were from her earlier or later relationships but raised within the Marley family’s embrace.
List of Rita Marley’s Children
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Sharon Marley – Rita’s first daughter, later adopted by Bob Marley. Sharon has been active in the family’s music and business ventures.
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Cedella Marley – A multi-talented designer, author, and singer who heads the Marley Group of Companies.
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David “Ziggy” Marley – A Grammy-winning musician who has successfully carried forward the Marley sound.
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Stephen Marley – Renowned for his work as a producer and performer, winning multiple Grammy Awards.
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Stephanie Marley – A key part of the Marley business empire and community initiatives.
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Serita Stewart – Rita’s daughter from a later relationship who maintains a private life.
Through her children, Rita Marley built a legacy that goes beyond music — one rooted in education, cultural pride, and love.
Rita Marley Net Worth
As of 2025, net worth is estimated at around $50 million. Her wealth is a reflection of decades of musical success, estate management, and business ventures.
Sources of Income
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Royalties from Bob Marley’s catalog and her own music
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Tuff Gong International, the iconic music label she co-manages
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Book Sales such as her autobiography “No Woman, No Cry”
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Marley Estate Licensing (apparel, merchandise, music rights)
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Real Estate investments in Jamaica and Ghana
Her business acumen ensured the Marley name became a billion-dollar global brand, while she remained committed to cultural preservation and philanthropy.
Rita Marley Age
Born on July 25, 1946, age is 79 years old as of 2025. Despite facing health challenges in her later years, including a stroke in 2016, she continues to be celebrated as one of reggae’s most powerful and enduring voices.
Her age represents not decline but legacy — proof of a lifetime dedicated to art, family, and activism. She remains a symbol of female strength in a genre once dominated by men.
Who Is Rita Marley Married to Now?
as married to Bob Marley from 1966 until his death in 1981. Since then, she has never remarried. Rita often says that Bob remains her spiritual partner, and her life’s work continues to honor his legacy.
Their marriage, while complex, was bound by deep love, faith, and mutual respect. Together, they faced poverty, fame, and global stardom — always united under their Rastafarian beliefs.
Even today, refers to Bob as her “king” and herself as his “queen,” symbolizing their eternal bond.
Rita Marley Now
In recent years, has spent much of her time in Ghana, where she was granted honorary citizenship in recognition of her humanitarian work. She divides her time between Ghana and Jamaica, focusing on the Rita Marley Foundation, which supports education, elderly care, and youth empowerment.
After suffering a stroke in 2016, she has lived a quieter life surrounded by her children and grandchildren. However, she remains spiritually active and continues to inspire global fans with her strength and devotion.
Life in Ghana
Rita’s Ghanaian residence in Konkonuru, near Accra, has become a symbol of her Pan-African dream — reconnecting with her ancestral roots and contributing to African communities.
Rita Marley Grandchildren
The Marley legacy lives vibrantly through grandchildren, many of whom have pursued creative and humanitarian careers.
Famous Grandchildren
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Skip Marley (son of Cedella Marley) – A Grammy-nominated artist known for “Slow Down” with H.E.R.
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Jo Mersa Marley (1991–2022) – The late son of Stephen Marley, who carried the reggae torch before his passing.
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Justice Marley, Sage Marley, and Daniel Marley – Rising stars in entertainment and activism.
Each grandchild represents a new chapter in the Marley dynasty, carrying forward the values Rita instilled: love, unity, and artistic authenticity.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Philanthropy lies at the core of Rita’s life mission. Through the Rita Marley Foundation, she has supported numerous initiatives focusing on:
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Youth education and empowerment
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Care for the elderly and orphans
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Community development projects in Jamaica and Ghana
Her belief in “Harambe” — a Swahili term for “working together” — inspired countless programs across Africa. Rita’s humanitarian work has touched thousands of lives, earning her respect beyond the music industry.
Awards and Recognition
Rita Marley’s contributions to music and humanity have been recognized globally. Her accolades include:
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Order of Distinction (Commander Class), Jamaica
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Reggae Hall of Fame Induction
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Honorary Ghanaian Citizenship (2013)
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Marcus Garvey Lifetime Achievement Award
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Women in Music Icon Award
These honors celebrate her unmatched influence in shaping reggae’s identity and her role as a beacon of female empowerment.
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FQRs
Who is Rita Marley married to now?
as married to Bob Marley from 1966 until his death in 1981. Since then, she has never remarried, focusing instead on preserving Bob Marley’s legacy, raising their children, and managing her philanthropic initiatives. She often describes her bond with Bob as spiritual and eternal.
Where is Rita Marley now?
As of 2025, Rita Marley divides her time between Ghana and Jamaica. In Ghana, she resides in Konkonuru, near Accra, where she manages the Rita Marley Foundation and oversees community projects. In Jamaica, she remains connected to music and her family’s legacy through events, charities, and the Bob Marley Museum.
Is Rita Marley still alive?
Yes, is alive as of 2025. She continues to inspire fans around the world through her music, philanthropy, and family legacy, despite facing health challenges, including a stroke in 2016.
How old is Rita Marley?
Born on July 25, 1946, is 79 years old as of 2025. Despite her age, she remains an active cultural icon and a guiding figure in reggae music and humanitarian work.
How many kids did Bob Marley have with Rita Marley?
three biological children with Rita Marley:
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Ziggy Marley – Musician and Grammy winner
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Stephen Marley – Musician and producer
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Cedella Marley – Singer, author, and entrepreneur
Rita also helped raise Bob’s other children, including Damian, Julian, Rohan, and Sharon, creating a strong, blended family dedicated to music, culture, and philanthropy.
Conclusion
Rita Marley stands as a living testament to faith, music, and maternal strength. Her influence reaches beyond reggae into humanitarianism and Pan-Africanism, showing the world that love and unity can outlast any struggle.
From her early days in Kingston to her peaceful life in Ghana, Rita has remained a guiding light for the Marley family and fans worldwide. Her voice — once harmonizing beside Bob Marley — now echoes through her children and grandchildren, ensuring that the message of One Love never fades.
At nearly 80, continues to embody what it means to be a true queen — a woman of courage, compassion, and endless rhythm.
