Who Is YG Marley? Full Biography, Family Legacy & Musical Journey
YG Marley, born Joshua Omaru Marley on December 5, 2001, is an American singer, songwriter, and rising star in the reggae and hip-hop scenes. As the grandson of reggae legend Bob Marley and the son of Grammy-winning artist Lauryn Hill and entrepreneur Rohan Marley, YG carries a rich musical heritage while forging his own path in the industry.
🎤 Early Life & Family Background
Born in Beverly Hills, California, YG Marley grew up immersed in a blend of musical and cultural influences. His mother, Lauryn Hill, is renowned for her work with the Fugees and her critically acclaimed solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. His father, Rohan Marley, is a former football player and the son of Bob Marley, the iconic figure who brought reggae music to global prominence.
YG is one of several siblings, including Zion, Selah, John, and Sara. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in music and activism, he was exposed to a diverse range of sounds and messages from an early age.
🎶 Musical Career & Breakthrough
YG Marley began releasing music professionally in 2020, but it was his debut single, “Praise Jah in the Moonlight,” released on December 27, 2023, that catapulted him into the spotlight. The track, co-written with his mother Lauryn Hill, samples Bob Marley & The Wailers’ 1978 song “Crisis,” blending contemporary reggae with classic roots. The song achieved international success, peaking within the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and earning platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Following this success, YG collaborated with artists like Busta Rhymes, Chloe Bailey, and Davido, appearing on Davido’s 2024 single “Awuke.”
🌟 Live Performances & Collaborations
In April 2024, YG Marley performed at Coachella, where he was joined on stage by his mother, Lauryn Hill, and her Fugees bandmate, Wyclef Jean, for a surprise mini-reunion. They performed classic Fugees hits, including “Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “Ready or Not,” with YG filling in for Pras Michel.
YG’s performances often pay tribute to his grandfather’s legacy, incorporating covers of Bob Marley’s songs like “One Love” and “Exodus,” connecting generations through music.
🎧 Musical Style & Influences
YG Marley’s music is characterized by a fusion of reggae and hip-hop, reflecting his rich heritage and contemporary influences. His tracks often feature hard-hitting beats paired with smooth, melodic flows that echo the rhythm and cadence of reggae music.
This blend of genres allows YG to create a unique sound that resonates with a diverse audience, honoring his family’s musical legacy while establishing his own identity in the industry.
📊 Personal Life & Public Image
As of 2025, YG Marley is 23 years old and continues to build his career in the music industry. He maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on his artistry and the messages conveyed through his music.
His net worth is estimated to be around $500,000, accumulated through his music releases, performances, and collaborations.
🏆 Legacy & Future Prospects
YG Marley’s emergence in the music scene represents the continuation of the Marley family’s influence on global music. By blending traditional reggae with modern elements, YG is not only preserving his grandfather’s legacy but also pushing the genre forward for new generations.
With his talent, heritage, and dedication, YG Marley is poised to make a lasting impact on the music industry, carrying the torch of his family’s storied history while crafting his own unique path.