Damian Marley, also known as Jr. Gong or Gongzilla, is a four-time Grammy Award–winning reggae musician born in 1978 to legendary singer Bob Marley and Cindy Breakspeare, former Miss World 1976.
Known for his blend of reggae and hip-hop styles, he began his career at an early age, starting with performances in the group The Shepherds.
Damian released his debut solo album, titled Mr. Marley, in 1996, followed by Halfway Tree in 2001, which gained significant recognition and chart success.
One of his most notable works includes the album Welcome To Jamrock, which featured the hit single, Welcome to Jamrock, recognized as one of the top songs of the decade by Rolling Stone.
Damian has collaborated extensively across genres, such as with Skrillex on the track, Make It Bun Dem, and with Nas on the album, Distant Relatives.
He continues to perform worldwide and remains active in the music industry through his Ghetto Youths International label, alongside his brothers Stephen and Julian.
Age, height and weight
Damian is 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) tall and weighs around 66 kilograms (approximately 145 pounds)
He was born on July 21, 1978, making him 45 years old as of February 2024.
Ethnicity and nationality
Damian is Jamaican by nationality and his ethnicity is primarily African-Jamaican, with smaller amounts of English, Irish, Sephardi Jewish and distant German and Dutch ancestry.
Parents and siblings
Damian was born to legendary reggae musician Bob Marley and Cindy Breakspeare, the 1976 Miss World.
On the other hand, Damian has a diverse array of siblings.
His oldest brother is Ziggy Marley, born in 1968, who is a well-known singer and songwriter. Sharon Marley, born in 1964, is Damian’s oldest sister and an accomplished entertainer.
Cedella Marley, born in 1967, is another older sister who is a singer and the acting director of the Bob Marley Foundation.
Damian also has siblings like Julian Marley, Stephanie Marley, and Makeda Jahnesta, each with their own unique talents and pursuits.
In total, Damian has 13 siblings from various relationships his father had.
The Marley family is deeply involved in music and cultural endeavors, with many of the siblings following in their father’s musical footsteps.
Despite being born out of wedlock, Damian has maintained strong connections with his extended family and continues to honor his father’s legacy through his music and contributions to the reggae genre.
Wife and children
Damian got married to Cristal Chaitram in 2013, and the couple has two children together.
Their first child, Elijah Marley, was born on August 19, 2009, in Miami, Florida.
Elijah is a Jamaican-American DJ, singer, record producer, and songwriter.
Damian also has a son named Christian Marley from another woman, but information about the woman is not public.
Damian Marley career
As the youngest son of reggae legend Bob Marley, Damian has carved out his own unique path in the music industry.
His career is marked by a fusion of reggae and hip-hop influences, creating a distinctive sound that sets him apart in the music world.
Damian gained widespread recognition for his insightful lyrics and powerful performances.
His music often addresses social issues, reflecting his commitment to using his platform for positive change.
Throughout his career, Damian has released several successful albums, including Mr. Marley and Halfway Tree, which showcased his musical evolution and versatility.
One of his most acclaimed works is the album, Welcome to Jamrock, featuring the hit single of the same name.
This album not only garnered critical acclaim but also won Damian Marley two Grammy Awards.
In addition to his solo work, Damian has collaborated with various artists across genres, expanding his musical reach and influence.
His collaborations with artists like Nas and Skrillex have further solidified his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.
Awards
Damian has amassed a remarkable collection of accolades over the course of his illustrious career.
Highlights of his award achievements include GRAMMY awards for Best Reggae Album: The Kalling (65th Annual GRAMMY Awards), Best Reggae Album: Welcome To Jamrock (shared with Stephen Marley, James ‘Bonzai’ Caruso) (2006), Best Reggae Album: Halfway Tree (shared with Stephen Marley) (2002) and Best Urban/Alternative Performance: Welcome To Jamrock (2006).
He also has MOBO awards for Best Reggae Act: 2017, and has been nominated for Best Reggae Act: 2012, 2011, 2010 and 2006.
Additionally, Damian received a nomination for Album of the Year at the 60th Annual GRAMMY Awards for Doo-Wops & Hooligans, shared with Bruno Mars, B.o.B., CeeLo Green, Needlz, Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine, Manny Marroquin and Stephen Marcussen.
These accomplishments underscore Damian’s immense talent and contribution to the music industry, particularly in the realm of reggae.
His ability to connect with audiences globally and push the boundaries of traditional reggae music has earned him a place among the most influential figures in modern music.
Net worth
Damian boasts a net worth of approximately $20 million.
This substantial fortune comes from his successful career as a Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter, along with his involvement in various projects spanning music, film and philanthropy.