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Exodus 1977
Album · by Bob Marley & The Wailers ↗ View artist

Exodus

When you immerse yourself in Exodus, you encounter a sound that feels both relaxed and possesses an energy that propels you. Recorded primarily in London in 1976 and early 1977, this ninth album by Bob Marley & The Wailers is distinguished by its production, which combines enveloping bass rhythms with touches of piano, trumpet, and guitar. Unlike previous works, the thematic focus shifts away from more complex narratives to concentrate on ideas such as change, politics from a religious perspective, and intimacy. The album is structured in two parts: the first addresses issues of faith and politics, while the second focuses on love and perseverance in beliefs.

Year
1977
Songs
10
Duration
37 min 19 seg
Listen to the album ★

10 song|s

Song list

# Title Available ⏱
01

Natural Mystic

3:27
02

So Much Things to Say

3:08
03

Guiltiness

3:20
04

The Heathen

2:32
05

Exodus

7:35
06

Jamming

3:31
07

Waiting in Vain

4:16
08

Turn Your Lights Down Low

3:39
09

Three Little Birds

3:00
10

One Love / People Get Ready

2:51

About the album

Exodus, according to DoReSol

The story behind the recording of Exodus is marked by a dramatic event. On December 3, 1976, Bob Marley survived an assassination attempt at his home in Jamaica. Shortly after this incident, and after performing at the Smile Jamaica concert, Marley moved to England, and it was there that he shaped this album. This period of involuntary exile is reflected in the music, creating a particular atmosphere. Songs like "Exodus", the title track, emerged in this context; in fact, Marley had already considered the title before writing the lyrics. The main song became a number one hit in Jamaica, as well as in Germany and the United Kingdom. Other tracks such as "Jamming", "Waiting in Vain", and "One Love / People Get Ready" also achieved significant international impact.

Exodus not only resonated with audiences but also stood out on the charts. It reached number 20 on the Billboard Pop Albums and number 15 on the Black Albums in the United States. In the United Kingdom, it remained on the charts for 56 consecutive weeks, reaching number 8. This album was fundamental in consolidating Bob Marley's international fame. The 2017 reissue commemorated its 40th anniversary, and the album remains a benchmark, with more songs included in the compilation Legend than from any other of Marley's works. The band that accompanied him during this phase included talented musicians such as Carlton and Aston "Family Man" Barrett on the rhythm section, Al Anderson and Junior Marvin on guitars, Tyrone Downie and Earl "Wya" Lindo on keyboards, and Alvin "Seeco" Patterson on percussion, in addition to the vocals of The I Threes.