Stephen Marley has spent decades carrying one of music’s most iconic names while forging his own path. Now the nine-time Grammy winner is entering new territory without leaving the studio.
The reggae artist has partnered with Atlanta’s Soapbox, an immersive media company, to deliver a 3D holographic performance available on Meta Quest. Using Soapbox’s proprietary 3D capture technology, Marley appears in striking, lifelike detail. Fans wearing headsets can experience him performing as if he is right in front of them—either in a virtual environment or projected into their living rooms.
It may feel unusual to describe Marley—renowned for sweat-soaked stages and live instrumentation—in terms of a digital experience. Yet early impressions suggest the hologram delivers presence, not mere spectacle.
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A Career Ready for Digital Innovation
Marley first gained attention with Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers before establishing a celebrated solo career. Grammy-winning albums like Mind Control and Revelation Pt. 1— The Root of Life cemented his status as one of reggae’s most versatile voices. His 2026 Grammy for Best Reggae Album, awarded for Bob Marley— One Love – Music Inspired by the Film (Deluxe), marked his ninth career win.
A multi-instrumentalist and producer, Marley has collaborated with artists including Eric Clapton, Buju Banton, Damian Marley, and Jack Johnson. Touring internationally, his live shows continue to convey the energy and message fans expect from the Marley name.
That history of commanding a stage makes his move into holographic performance feel like a natural extension of his craft. Soapbox is exploring whether a headset can replicate that same room-filling presence.
Soapbox’s Vision in Atlanta
Soapbox has quietly built an impressive lineup of immersive experiences. The company captures artists in full 3D, converting performances and interviews into life-size holograms accessible via the Soapbox app on Meta Quest. Fans in over 150 countries can explore content ranging from T-Pain’s hip-hop performances to blues lessons with Buddy Guy.
The platform also has educational ambitions. Holograms now include guided meditations by Tibetan monk Lama Tashi and music instruction from Buddy Guy. Each 3D recording preserves an artist’s technique, style, and stage presence in high fidelity, creating a cultural archive that may outlast conventional streaming platforms.
Changing the Music Industry Landscape
For legacy acts with global audiences, Soapbox introduces a new revenue model. A fan in Lagos or Tokyo can experience a performance without booking a flight. For the music industry, this opens discussions about audience reach, touring strategy, and the value of immersive experiences.
Early VR attempts often felt like video games rather than concerts. Soapbox’s approach prioritizes authenticity over flash, emphasizing detailed 3D capture and realistic performance preservation. It transforms ephemeral live shows into permanent experiences.
Reggae Meets Virtual Reality
Marley didn’t need a hologram to prove his relevance. His Grammy collection and catalog already speak volumes. Yet his embrace of the format signals broader opportunities for artists across genres. If a roots reggae icon with five decades of family legacy sees value in immersive performance, other artists are likely to explore the medium as well.
The Stephen Marley hologram is available now on Meta Quest, offering fans a chance to witness reggae royalty in a completely new way.
