On May 11, 1981, reggae legend Bob Marley passed away of cancer at the young age of 36.
Today makes 40 years since he passed. He was best known for making uplifting music and was a voice for the voiceless. Through his music, fans could feel his passion for his craft, his love for Jah (God), and his desire to spread awareness on politics/social issues.
Take a listen to four Bob Marley songs that still matter today, and read why.
“One Love”
Bob Marley released “One Love” in 1965 with The Wailers. The song is a “gospel-infused” track with uplifting parts like “let’s get together and feel all right. Another version dropped in 1977. The song is still the soundtrack for many cruises and commercials. Take a listen:
“No Woman, No Cry”
This is one of Bob Marley’s most famous songs. It was recorded in 1975 and written by Vincent Ford. Vincent was a friend of Marley’s who ran a soup kitchen in Trenchtown. “No Woman, No Cry” is a classic for the ladies, reminding them of their strength, courage, and bravery.
Take a listen:
“Buffalo Soldier”
This track was released in 1983, two years after Bob Marley’s death. It was one of the last songs he recorded. This politically driven track was based on actual events. The Buffalo Soldiers were a group of segregated black cavalry fighters. This was during the American campaign to “rid the West of Indians” so that “civilized” white people could take the Native American’s land, song facts reports. The soldiers were slaves brought from Africa. The song was written by Bob and Noel Williams, who went by the name King Sporty. Take a listen:
“Could You Be Loved”
This classic was released in 1980, but Bob wrote it in 1979. It has various meanings. Some believe it’s a love song; others say it’s a tune about the poverty and struggles he witnessed. The Daily Beast reports, “Could You Be Loved,” received regular rotation on New York City’s popular station WBLS FM. Take a listen:
Bob Marley is still making history. His 1984 album, Legend, is the second album to hit 13 years on the Billboard 200 chart. It featured classics like “No Woman No Cry,” “Three Little Birds,” “Get Up Stand Up,” “Buffalo Soldier,” “Exodus,” “I Shot the Sheriff,” and more.
Let us know what your all-time favorite Bob Marley jam is!