Bob Marley cemented his legacy as the King of Reggae through his soulful vocals, socially conscious lyrics promoting unity and freedom and iconic dreadlocked appearance. Although his career was tragically cut short, Marley created a remarkable body of work that brought him global fame. This ranking of Bob Marley Top 10 Songs highlights the most influential reggae hits that continue inspiring millions of devoted fans today. Explore the classics that made Bob Marley a legend with our list of top 10 songs of Bob Marley.
Bob Marley Top 10 Songs
| Sr. No. | Song Name | Year |
| 1 | 1975 | |
| 2 | 1976 | |
| 3 | 1980 | |
| 4 | 1977 | |
| 5 | 1973 | |
| 6 | 1973 | |
| 7 | 1973 | |
| 8 | 1980 | |
| 9 | 1983 | |
| 10 | 1977 |
1 - No Woman, No Cry (1975)
- Album: Natty Dread
- Release Date: October 25, 1974
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley, Vincent Ford
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
This reggae classic first appeared on the 1974 album Natty Dread. Although the stirring ballad is often interpreted as a romantic song, the lyrics actually refer to hardship in Trenchtown, the impoverished Jamaican community where Marley grew up. Live recordings from 1975 London with harmonizing female vocals became the definitive version. No Woman No Cry broke through to global popularity, cementing Marley fame. Its gentle lyrics of reassurance in times of trouble make it one of his most loved songs.
2 - War (1976)
- Album: Rastaman Vibration
- Release Date: April 30, 1976
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
Taken from the 1976 album Rastaman Vibration, War denounces violence, hatred and systemic inequality. Marley lyrics deplore the futility of war, pleading for harmony and mutual understanding between polarized groups. Developed from an earlier Wailers song Blackman Redemption, War is one of Marley most explicitly political tracks. But its rallying cry for pacifism and unity transcends politics with a soulful message of universal humanity and brotherhood.
3 - Redemption Song (1980)
- Album: Uprising
- Release Date: May 11, 1980
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
Appearing on Marley final studio album Uprising, Redemption Song has become recognized as one of his most poetic and personal works. Stripped down to just Marley powerful vocals and guitar, the ballad stresses spiritual emancipation and overcoming mental slavery, oppression and hatred. Inspired by pan-African orator Marcus Garvey, it evokes timeless human yearnings for freedom, self-empowerment and self-knowledge. The song took on greater poignancy as Marley final testament during his battle with cancer.
4 - One Love/People Get Ready (1977)
- Album: Exodus
- Release Date: June 3, 1977
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley, Peter Tosh
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
One Love/People Get Ready stands out as one of Bob Marley most famous and inspiring anthems. Combining lyrics from Curtis Mayfield People Get Ready with Marley own verses, it delivers a message of unity and peace. Marley debuted the song at the One Love Peace Concert in Jamaica in 1978, uniting opposing political rivals on stage. The timeless lyrics and laid back reggae groove promote racial harmony and understanding. Decades later, One Love remains an uplifting call for solidarity and love worldwide.
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5 - Stir It Up (1973)
- Album: Catch a Fire
- Release Date: April 13, 1973
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriter: Bob Marley
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
Featured on Marley major label debut Catch a Fire, Stir It Up emerged as one of his signature sensual love songs. Inspired by his wife Rita, the laidback track highlighted Marley soulful voice and talent for songcraft early in his career. The song gained further exposure when Johnny Nash covered it, helping introduce Marley music to pop audiences. From its lilting melody to evocative lyrics, Stir It Up became a linchpin of Marley discography and star power.
6 - Slave Driver (1973)
- Album: Catch a Fire
- Release Date: April 13, 1973
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley, Peter Tosh
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
Also from Catch a Fire, Slave Driver delivers a scathing condemnation of slavery, centuries after its abolition. Marley lyrics vividly evoke the agony of captivity and forced labor through the ages. Although often interpreted as commenting on capitalism and broader societal oppression, the track focuses squarely on the horrific legacy of the Atlantic slave trade. The minor key melody underscores the somber subject matter. Slave Driver proved Marley songwriting could powerfully bear witness to humanity darkest chapters.
7 - Get Up, Stand Up (1973)
- Album: Burnin'
- Release Date: October 19, 1973
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley, Peter Tosh
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
Co-written with Peter Tosh, this classic appeared on The Wailers' last studio album Burnin' before becoming Bob Marley and the Wailers. A protest anthem denouncing inequality and injustice, it urges the downtrodden to unite and challenge their oppressors. The bold lyrics attacked institutions perpetuating poverty and discrimination. Performed from a defiant standpoint, Get Up Stand Up became a revolutionary call to action synonymous with Marley rallying spirit and the power of protest music.
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8 - Could You Be Loved (1980)
- Album: Uprising
- Release Date: May 11, 1980
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
The infectiously upbeat Could You Be Loved was the first single from Uprising, Marley final album before his death. The smooth, danceable feel made it more accessible for pop radio play. But the thoughtful lyrics about unconditional love and community maintain Marley substance and spirituality. Released amidst political turmoil in Jamaica, it carried a message of togetherness. With bright harmonies and grooving vibe, Could You Be Loved became a vibrant Top 10 hit exemplifying Marley eternal appeal.
9 - Buffalo Soldier (1983)
- Album: Confrontation
- Release Date: May 5, 1983
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley, King Sporty
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
Although posthumously released on the album Confrontation, Marley originally wrote Buffalo Soldier in 1980. He draws upon the history of former slaves and freedmen recruited into all-black US Army regiments after the Civil War. The song celebrates their fight for freedom and connection to Africa despite adversity in America. The rhythmic track gave wider exposure to the contributions of the marginalized Buffalo Soldiers. As Marley final recorded single, it carried on his legacy of championing black history and resilience.
10 - Exodus (1977)
- Album: Exodus
- Release Date: June 3, 1977
- Genre: Reggae
- Songwriters: Bob Marley
- Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Music
The title track from Bob Marley and the Wailers' 1977 studio album Exodus, this roots reggae anthem emerged as one of Marley most renowned songs. Its lyrics reflect his own experience after being shot in Jamaica in 1976, traveling to London and metaphorically moving towards a promised land. Named Time magazine Song of the Century, Exodus ultimately sends a universal message about journeying beyond struggle toward spiritual redemption and freedom. The song encapsulates Marley immortal sound and belief in music power.
DPM Top Picks
For newcomers to Bob Marley extensive catalog, One Love, No Woman No Cry and Redemption Song offer the perfect introduction to his smooth vocals, uplifting messages and enduring influence. These three timeless classics show the spiritual, emotional and socially resonant qualities that made Bob Marley a global superstar.
Conclusion
Although Bob Marley prolific career was cut short by his early passing, he changed music forever as the King of Reggae and one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. These 10 legendary hits reveal how Marley touched countless lives through the depth of his songwriting and poetry set to unforgettable reggae melodies. Decades later, his songs promoting love, unity, resistance and redemption continue inspiring millions worldwide.
FAQs
Q: Is Bob Marley the most famous musician?
Bob Marley remains one of the most famous musicians worldwide over 40 years after his death, with his iconic songs instantly recognizable today. His global popularity helped bring reggae into the mainstream.
Q: Why is Bob Marley so famous?
Bob Marley garnered worldwide fame for his smooth reggae sound combining Jamaican rhythms with socially conscious lyrics about spirituality, freedom, resistance and unity that resonated across countries and cultures.
Q: Who is the biggest selling reggae artist of all time?
Bob Marley is considered the biggest selling and most influential reggae artist ever, with estimates of over 75 million albums sold. His acclaim helped shine a spotlight on reggae music.
Q: Did Bob Marley have any number one hits?
Bob Marley did not have any number one hits on mainstream charts during his lifetime, but One Love/People Get Ready reached Number 5 on the UK Singles Chart. Several songs like Could You Be Loved became hits after his passing.