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The Arts Intel Report

Dennis Morris: Music + Life

Dennis Morris, Burning, 1974.

5/7 Rue de Fourcy, 75004 Paris, France

In 1974, when Dennis Morris heard Bob Marley was playing on Great Marlborough Street, just minutes from his school in London, he grabbed his camera and rushed over. Not only did Marley agree to be photographed, but when Morris mentioned his dream of becoming a photographer, Marley said, “You are a photographer.” The words stuck with him. Three years later, Morris spent a year touring with the Sex Pistols, capturing their raw energy. He later accompanied the Virgin Records boss, Richard Branson, to Jamaica to scout new talent, his Leica always in hand. “It was small,” he reasoned, “so you can take it anywhere, and no one takes it seriously. So you get them to open up.” This exhibition traces a remarkable career among great musicians. —Elena Clavarino