How Skipping School to See Bob Marley Led Me to Becoming His Photographer?

In 1973, a chance encounter between a young Dennis Morris and reggae legend Bob Marley sparked a remarkable photographic journey that would capture the essence of music and culture over several decades. Morris's work, which includes iconic images of Marley and other music giants, is currently showcased in an exhibition at The Photographers' Gallery in Soho, celebrating his contributions to documentary photography and music journalism.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Dennis Morris began his photography career at the age of 14 by photographing Bob Marley.
• His work spans various music genres, capturing icons from the Sex Pistols to Oasis.
• Morris's exhibition showcases not only music photography but also significant cultural documentation.
• His approach aims to reveal the true selves of his subjects, creating intimate connections through his images.
• The exhibition has received positive feedback, resonating with audiences who see reflections of their own lives.

The Early Days: A Fortuitous Encounter

On a chilly morning in 1973, the 14-year-old Morris made the bold decision to bunk off school for what would become a life-changing day. As Bob Marley arrived in London for his first tour, Morris approached him to request a photograph. To his surprise, Marley welcomed him, offering a glimpse into the world of music that would ignite a lifelong passion.

First Impressions and the Birth of a Career

During soundcheck breaks at the club, a young Morris engaged Marley in conversation about life in Jamaica and his newly embarked tour. The reggae star's friendly nature and openness allowed Morris to capture not just the musician's image, but also an insight into his personality. Marley’s invitation to join him on tour was the catalyst for Morris's burgeoning photography career.

The tour, however, was short-lived, ending when band members expressed concerns about the snow. Yet, those few weeks provided Morris with invaluable experience and connections that would shape his future. The photographs he took during this time, including an iconic image of Marley in the band's van, are now part of the ongoing exhibition at The Photographers' Gallery.

A Journey Through Photography

Morris's journey into photography began long before his encounter with Marley. Born in Jamaica in 1960 and moving to London's East End at the age of five, his fascination with photography ignited at the age of nine while serving as a choirboy. The local church's photography club, inspired by an eccentric vicar, introduced him to the art of capturing moments on film.

Capturing Music History

After photographing Marley in 1973, Morris had the opportunity to photograph him again in 1975 at the legendary Lyceum Theatre gig. His familiarity with Marley’s performance style enabled him to take exceptional photographs that would be featured on the covers of notable publications like NME, Melody Maker, and Time Out. This creative synergy led Morris to a successful career in music photography, capturing the essence of many iconic artists.

Photographing Conflict: The Punk Era

While Morris initially aspired to be a war photographer, he found a new form of conflict in the chaotic world of the Sex Pistols. Invited to document their tumultuous tour in 1977, he embraced the raw energy and unpredictability of the punk scene.

"It was such a chaotic scenario, constantly being threatened and being attacked whenever they were on the streets," Morris recalls. "When I worked with the Pistols, I found my war, really - for me, it was perfect." This period allowed Morris to explore the darker side of the music industry while honing his skills as a photographer.

A Diverse Portfolio of Artists

Following his time with the Sex Pistols, Morris expanded his repertoire, capturing a wide array of artists including Patti Smith, Oasis, Goldie, and Radiohead. His travels allowed him to document the evolving landscape of music, while he also remained committed to his passion for reportage and documentary photography.

Documenting Communities and Cultures

Beyond music, Morris's photography has consistently sought to portray the realities of the communities around him. Projects like "Growing Up Black," which explored black culture in 1970s London, and "Southall - A Home from Home," which focused on the Sikh community, exemplify his dedication to documenting diverse narratives.

"I was documenting my community, my neighbourhood and then beyond that," he states. His ability to connect with subjects has enabled him to gain their trust, fostering environments where they feel comfortable sharing their stories.

Revealing True Selves

Morris’s philosophy revolves around capturing the essence of his subjects, stripping away the masks they wear in public. "If I'm doing a photograph of musicians, what I try to do is take away that mask to reveal their true self," he explains. This approach allows viewers to feel as though they are witnessing intimate moments, creating a deeper connection with the images.

The Exhibition: A Celebration of Art and Memory

The current exhibition at The Photographers' Gallery showcases a selection of Morris's work, blending music photography with documentary storytelling. Initially opened at the Maison Européenne de la Photographie in Paris, it has received acclaim for its emotional resonance.

Morris expresses pride in the exhibition's impact, with visitors reflecting on their pasts and familial histories. "People say they have been seeing their past lives or their parents' lives," he notes, highlighting the nostalgia and connection that his images evoke.

Insights into Musical Journeys

From the music side of the exhibition, attendees gain insights into the intimate moments of bands and the struggles they faced. "It's an insight into what it takes to get to where they got to," Morris adds, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in his work.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Dennis Morris

As Dennis Morris continues to capture the world through his lens, his legacy as a music photographer and documentarian remains firmly established. His ability to connect with subjects and convey their stories has resulted in a body of work that resonates with audiences across generations. Morris's journey, sparked by a chance encounter with Bob Marley, serves as a reminder of the power of photography in capturing the essence of culture and identity.

What will the next chapter in Morris's photographic journey reveal? With his unique perspective and dedication to storytelling, there is no doubt that he will continue to illuminate the lives of those he photographs. #DennisMorris #PhotographyExhibition #BobMarley

FAQs

What inspired Dennis Morris to become a photographer?

Dennis Morris was inspired to become a photographer at the age of nine when he joined a photography club at his local church. Observing older boys print photographs ignited his passion for the medium.

How did Dennis Morris meet Bob Marley?

Morris met Bob Marley in 1973 when he bunked off school to photograph Marley during his first tour in England. Marley welcomed him and invited Morris to join the tour.

What type of photography does Dennis Morris specialise in?

Morris specializes in music photography, capturing iconic musicians, as well as documentary photography that explores cultural and community narratives.

What is the significance of the current exhibition by Dennis Morris?

The exhibition highlights Morris's work, showcasing both his music photography and his documentary projects, creating a narrative that resonates with audiences and reflects cultural histories.

How has the exhibition been received by the public?

The exhibition has been well-received, with many visitors expressing nostalgia and connection to their pasts through Morris's images, particularly those related to the "Growing Up Black" project.