Two-time Grammy-nominated artist Julian “Juju Royale” Marley spoke June 13 with Orange County students who he sees as a promising future for society.
Logged into Zoom from Miami, Marley was the latest guest to appear in a series called Careers Without Borders, a program created in 2020 within the Orange County Department’s Alternative, Community and Correctional Education Schools and Services Program (ACCESS). was the speaker. of education.
Launched by Vice Superintendent Vern Burton and Special Education Coordinator Dr. Nathan Goodley, the program was designed to open up a variety of career paths for students and instill confidence in their personal journey.
Interviews give students in alternative education the opportunity to gain insight into the humble beginnings of successful guest speakers. Since last summer, the program has made it possible to book American Ballet Theater dancer Misty Copeland, actors Danny Trejo and William Allen Young, civil rights activist Sylvia Mendes and most recently Marley. became.
“He’s an accomplished musician in his own right,” said Goodley. “Many of our staff and students are fans of reggae music. Everyone resonated with Julian’s positive message and humble attitude.”
Carrying on the legacy of Bob Marley
Following in the footsteps of his father, reggae music icon Bob Marley, Julian Marley learned how to play keyboards, drums, bass and guitar from an early age.
“For as long as I can remember, music has always been at the forefront of what I loved and always wanted to be a part of,” said Marley. “I remember hearing the songs my father played and the positive feelings he put into the music.”
Despite being a two-time Grammy nominee and performing on behalf of the Jamaican government at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Marley said his mission wasn’t to achieve fame, but to live and sing with purpose. says.
Marley’s latest album, Colors of Royal, was released in March. The artist said the songwriting process for this album is very different from how he has written songs in the past. Although he drew inspiration from other genres he enjoyed listening to, he also remained true to reggae.
“This album takes the listener on a journey through sounds and colors,” said Marley. “This music represents the real me that many people don’t see. .”
Before leaving, Marley reminded his students of the importance of following their dreams, studying what they love, and working together to create a better world.
“Reggae reminds us to be true to ourselves and to give back because the act of giving is the true reward,” Marley said.
Students and their families can watch the Careers Without Borders speaker series and learn more here.
