Music is in Zion Marley’s blood. When your grandfather is Bob Marley and your mother is Ms. Lauryn Hill, that should come as no surprise. The third-generation music royalty, who was immortalized in Hill’s iconic song “To Zion” as a baby, is her latest child to rock the mic and release music. Lauryn’s firstborn follows his two younger siblings Selah Marley and YG Marley and numerous uncles and aunties into the family business with his debut single “Best Of Me.”
Zion has dabbled in hip-hop before, but he’s found his sweet spot in reggae on “Best Of Me.” He trades spitting bars for singing over a laid-back, rhythmic groove, and he carries the tune quite well. He channels his legendary grandfather with meaningful lyrics that touch on biblical scripture about dealing with people who may have bad intentions. Meanwhile, the supporting vocalists’ harmonies bring to mind the trio of singers The I-Threes, which included his grandmother Rita Marley as a member, who sang with Bob.
“Is it wrong to love thy enemies?” Zion questions on the chorus, which opens the song. He continues, “I’ve only been backstabbed by friends of me / No one can take my destiny / Can’t let them get the best of me.” He’s clear about the path that he’s on and the people he deals with and not allowing anyone – be it friend or foe – to get in the way of what is meant for him. He later reminds listeners to do the same, singing, “You better guard your soul / Guard your heart / Guard your mind.”
“Best Of Me” is a fine debut from Zion Marley. Welcome him to your music collections and playlists when you listen to the track and take in the message in his music right here.
