Why John Nesta Marley Didn’t Choose Music Like His Family

When you hear the name Marley, you probably think of music, reggae, and powerful songs about love and freedom. After all, Bob Marley is one of the most famous music legends in the world. His children and grandchildren have also kept the family’s musical flame alive.

And then there’s John Nesta Marley — the son of Lauryn Hill and Rohan Marley. With such famous parents, everyone expected him to become a singer or performer too.

But here’s the twist: John didn’t choose music like the rest of his family.

Instead, he’s walking a quieter, more personal path. In this article, we’ll explore who John Nesta Marley really is, why he made a different choice, and what his life looks like in 2025.

Who Is John Nesta Marley?

John Nesta Marley was born on June 28, 2003, in Kingston, Jamaica. He’s the son of Lauryn Hill, the Grammy-winning rapper and singer, and Rohan Marley, the son of Bob Marley.

That makes John part of not just one—but two—famous families. From his mom’s side, he comes from a world of hip-hop, soul, and powerful lyrics. From his dad’s side, he carries the legacy of reggae and deep roots in Jamaican culture.

Even with this strong family background, John has mostly stayed away from the spotlight. He prefers to live a quiet life, building his own identity step by step.

A Childhood Filled with Music Legends

John grew up in a world where music was all around him. His mom, Lauryn Hill, became famous in the 1990s with The Fugees and later released her classic solo album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. His dad, Rohan, didn’t sing—but he carried the Marley name proudly and worked in business and sports.

Imagine being a child surrounded by famous songs, loud concerts, studio visits, and people always expecting you to sing or perform. That was normal for John.

He also grew up with brothers and sisters who were creative too—some went into music, some into fashion, and some into sports. But from a young age, John showed signs that he wasn’t going to follow the same musical path.

Why Everyone Expected John to Be a Musician

It’s not surprising that people thought John Nesta Marley would become a singer.

His brother, YG Marley, has already started making music and performing with Lauryn Hill on stage. His sister, Selah Marley, is a model and artist who shares her thoughts openly. His grandfather is one of the most famous singers in history.

So fans and the media kept watching John, waiting for him to pick up a microphone, join a band, or release a song.

But that moment never came. Instead, John quietly moved in another direction—one that didn’t involve beats, studios, or stages.

Why John Nesta Marley Chose a Different Direction

So why didn’t John Nesta Marley go into music like his family?

The answer is simple: he wanted something different.

John didn’t grow up trying to copy his parents or siblings. He had his own way of thinking and didn’t feel the need to prove anything. He wasn’t looking for fame or attention. Instead, he focused on what made him feel happy and true to himself.

He didn’t reject music—he just didn’t feel called to it the same way his family did. And that’s okay. Not every child in a famous family wants to follow the same road. Some want to explore new things, make their own name, and try something fresh.

For John, that “something” was fashion.

John Nesta Marley and His Love for Fashion

Fashion became one of John’s favorite ways to express himself.

Back in 2019, he modeled for a cool brand called The Brooklyn Circus, which mixes modern style with vintage looks. He also worked with Rag & Bone, a popular New York fashion label known for clean, stylish designs.

In photos, John looked confident and calm. He wore simple outfits that still made a strong statement. Whether it was an all-black look, a bold hoodie, or a turtleneck, you could see that he understood fashion deeply. He didn’t need loud colors or flashy brands—just thoughtful style and quiet confidence.

While his siblings sing and perform, John tells his story through clothes, poses, and attitude.

His Time at St. John’s University

Education is also a big part of John Nesta Marley’s life. Instead of jumping into the spotlight, he took time to study and grow.

He’s been attending St. John’s University, a private Catholic college in New York. His dad shared a proud post on Instagram celebrating John’s second year there, calling him “My Lion” and praising his strength.

We don’t know exactly what he’s studying, but it could be something creative like design, film, or even business. What matters most is that John is investing in his future—not rushing into fame, but building something real and lasting.

He’s focused on learning, growing, and taking his time to figure things out.

What His Parents Say About Him

Even though Lauryn Hill and Rohan Marley are no longer together, they both have a deep love and respect for their son.

On John’s birthday, Lauryn Hill once shared a sweet post with pictures from when he was a baby all the way to his teenage years. She wrote that his smile gave her clarity during hard times—a powerful message showing how much he means to her.

His father, Rohan Marley, often shares kind and supportive messages too. He calls John “My Lion,” which shows pride, strength, and love. Rohan may have a big family name to carry, but he always supports his children in being true to themselves.

John isn’t following a map made by his parents. But his parents are cheering for him every step of the way.

How John Stays Out of the Spotlight

In today’s world, it feels like everyone wants attention. But John Nesta Marley is the opposite.

He doesn’t show up in interviews. He doesn’t go to music award shows. You won’t see him performing on stage or talking about his famous family on TV. Instead, he keeps things simple and private. He chooses peace over popularity.

Even though he comes from two very famous families, John walks a quiet path. He lives his life like a regular young man—studying, working on his style, and staying close to the people he trusts.

This low-key lifestyle makes him stand out even more. He shows that you don’t have to be loud to be strong.

How He’s Different from His Famous Siblings

John Nesta Marley has several siblings, and each one is doing their own thing.

His brother Zion was famously mentioned in Lauryn Hill’s song To Zion. His sister Selah Marley is a model and artist who works with top brands and often shares her thoughts online. His younger brother Joshua Marley—also known as YG Marley—is following in the footsteps of their grandfather, Bob Marley, by performing reggae music.

But John? He’s on his own journey.

While his siblings shine in music and fashion shows, John is quiet but confident. He doesn’t talk much, but when he shows up, people notice. He doesn’t want to compete. He just wants to live life his own way. That’s what makes him special.

John Nesta Marley’s Connection with His Roots

Even though he’s chosen a different path, John Nesta Marley still respects where he comes from.

He knows the Marley name is powerful. He understands the love people have for his grandfather, Bob Marley, and for his mother, Lauryn Hill. And even if he doesn’t make music, he carries their values with him.

He was raised with strong beliefs—love, truth, discipline, and respect. Lauryn Hill once said that John’s smile helped her during hard days. That kind of love and bond is deep. And his father, Rohan, always speaks proudly of him, calling him a lion—someone strong, calm, and focused.

John may not sing songs, but he’s still part of the story.

What’s Next for John Nesta Marley?

So, what could the future hold for John Nesta Marley?

He might start his own fashion brand, or continue modeling with top designers. With his clean, thoughtful style, he could also work behind the scenes in fashion, film, or design.

Some people wonder if he’ll one day surprise the world with a song. Maybe he has musical talent, but just doesn’t want to share it yet. Or maybe he’ll stay true to his current path—quiet, focused, and true to himself.

No matter what he chooses, one thing is clear: he’s taking his time. He’s not in a rush. He’s building a life that feels right to him.

Final Thoughts

John Nesta Marley comes from a world full of music, fame, and big expectations. But instead of following the same road, he chose something different. Something real. Something calm.

In 2025, John is more than “Lauryn Hill’s son” or “Bob Marley’s grandson.” He’s his own person. A young man who values peace, privacy, and personal growth.

He may not be making albums or winning Grammys, but he’s doing something just as powerful—living with purpose, quietly and confidently.

And that’s a story worth paying attention to.