Ziggy Marley Brings Love, Unity and Reggae to Ravinia

Ravinia Festival’s final Hunter Pavilion weekend of the summer got underway Thursday night with an evening of reggae, global rhythms and positive energy as Ziggy Marley brought his music and message to a packed Hunter Pavilion.

The eldest son of reggae legend Bob Marley and Rita Marley, Ziggy has spent nearly four decades establishing his own musical identity while carrying forward his family’s musical legacy. An eight-time Grammy winner, Marley has blended reggae with elements of funk, blues and rock while addressing subjects ranging from social justice and environmental awareness to self-empowerment. His latest album, Brightside, released earlier this year, takes a more introspective approach, exploring hope and finding light during difficult times.

Marley made that message feel very much at home at Ravinia.

Opening with “Jah We Give Glory,” Marley quickly moved through newer songs including “Why Let the World” and “Sweet Divine” before mixing in familiar favorites. “Love Is My Religion,” “One Love,” “Jamming” and “Could You Be Loved” had the audience singing and dancing, while “Rebellion Rises,” “We Are the People,” “Racism Is A Killa” and “Justice” brought a more socially conscious side to the performance.

While Bob Marley’s influence was unmistakable, this was clearly Ziggy’s show. Rather than simply recreating his father’s music, he used the familiar songs as part of a broader set that demonstrated how he has developed his own voice and career.

The evening began with Thievery Corporation, making its Ravinia debut. The Washington, D.C.-based band's combination of electronic music, dub, reggae and global influences provided an atmospheric opening that fit naturally with the night’s international musical theme.

Thursday’s concert marked the beginning of the final Hunter Pavilion weekend of Ravinia’s 2026 summer season, with Tom Jones on Friday and Martina McBride on Saturday.

And while the summer season is winding down, Ravinia is already looking ahead. Ravinia announced this week a $38 million gift from The Negaunee Foundation to renovate the historic Martin Theatre. The project will preserve the theater’s 1904 Arts and Crafts character while upgrading acoustics, backstage facilities, seating, accessibility and production capabilities. Construction is scheduled to begin after the 2026 season, with completion planned for 2028.

For now, though, Ziggy Marley provided a fitting soundtrack for the final Hunter Pavilion weekend—music rooted in history, focused on the present and, appropriately, looking toward the Brightside.

Check out more upcoming events at Ravinia.