Timeline: Bob Marley – Forgotten Classics Just Under The Surface

By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor

So often, time dictates a storyline regardless of the truth and the way things actually happened. It's all for the "good of the story." That's my main issue with 'biopics,' as they attempt to tell the tale of historical figures of varying significance. Hollywood will dictate how the tale is told. While that's just the way it's all played out, at least stories are being told, and with any luck, exposing these stories to a public that will go on to investigate further.

So what's this rant all about then? Well, a brand new biopic of Bob Marley titled ‘One Love’ has just been released. Like so many stories told before, the man at the center here; singer, songwriter, prophet, and musician,  was far more complex than can be unraveled in the two hour film, but let's hope his story has been well told here, the most significant aspect of which, was his music.

Bob Marley was immersed in music from his teenage years until his untimely death, forming the legendary Wailers, in 1963, with friends Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. Several recordings onward, and Marley had become the last man standing and leader of the band, going on to record a run of classic reggae albums. In the mid 1970's reggae was being talked about by music industry insiders as a possible “next big thing,” and Marley was right at the front of it. Eric Clapton had a hit with his "I Shot The Sheriff," and his records kept reaching a larger audience, until cancer claimed his life in 1981. He was only 36 years old.

A decade later Island records issued a best of called 'Legend,’ which would ultimately sell over 22 million copies. It has become the one reggae album people feel the need to have in their collection, much like even those who aren't into jazz own a copy pf Miles Davis' 'Kind Of Blue.' While 'Legend' is a wonderful collection of some of Marley's best known songs, there are so many more just under the surface to be heard!

So, in honor of the new biopic, 'One Love,' here is a list of some fantastic Bob Marley tracks you may never have heard, but should!

'Keep On Moving' (1970)

The pure sounds of early reggae are hard to top. From ska through rocksteady on to reggae, roots, dub, and more, Jamaican music is a fascinating thing to explore. 'Keep On Moving' is pure sweet Jamaican soul music

‘Stop The Train’ (1971)

Originally released as a single in 1971, 'Stop That Train' would find a second chance at life when re-recorded for the Wailers' 1973 album 'Catch A Fire.' There is something more engaging and dynamic about the original version, with its punchy American soul vibe still intact, showing the early Wailers in top form.

‘Concrete Jungle’ (1973)

Haunting, driving, and hard to shake, 'Concrete Jungle' ranks among Marley and the Wailer's finest recordings. It's everything great about those early years, condensed into one track. You can hear from this what all the fuss was about.

‘Burnin' and Lootin'’ (1973)

From the 1973 ablum “Burnin', 'Burnin' and Lootin'” is prime Marely. That constant, engaging rhythm, deep warm production, and ace lyrics make for an early classic.

‘Lively Up Yourself’ (1974)

‘Lively Up Yourself' was a celebratory jammer that kicked off his 1974 'Natty Dread' LP. Setting the tone, it helped the LP become an underground classic of the era. Marley's message was starting to cut through.

‘Roots, Rock, Reggae’ (1976)

By the release of 'Rastaman Vibration' in 1976, Marley's fame was growing. The album reached into the US Top 10, and this track, released as a single, jumped all the way up to No.51. Though credited to Vincent Ford, years later it was noted by Marley's Widow, Rita, that Bob had written the track, but it, along with a few others, was credited to Ford for various reasons.

‘Natural Mystic’ (1977)

The 1977 album 'Exodus' ranks among Marley's finest moments, perhaps his definitive statement.  Full of great songs from open to close, it's easy to see why this is a go to favorite for fans over the past several decades. 'Natural Mystic' is but one of the classics here with its genre defining groove and mood.

‘Punky Reggae Party’ (1977)

A large contingent of the punk crowd loved reggae music. From The Clash to The Slits to Mr. Lydon, it was a soundtrack to life. Aware of the connection, Marley penned this club classic, even name checking The Damned, The Jam, The Clash, and Dr. Feelgood! Originally issued as the b-side to the Top 10 UK hit single, 'Jamming,' it became a classic all its own. "It takes a joyful sound to make the world go round" indeed!

‘Sun Is Shining’ (1978)

A brilliant and lovely track from the 1978 'Kaya' LP, 'Sun Is Shining' is a glorious production enhanced by clever percussion and sweet guitar licks. One of Bob's most glowing moments.