4-9) Bob Marley and the Wailers - Exodus (1977)

There is a common misconception that you have to be under the influence of certain substances in order to enjoy the music of Robert Nesta Marley and that just simply is not true.  Although the use of cannabis is a part of the Rastafari movement which Bob championed, and is prevalent still in the Jamaican community, it is not needed in order to receive a "high" when listening to this incredible album. Reggae music is a genre we have not explored yet on our blog and there is no better place to start than Exodus.

 The album title refers to Bob leaving Jamaica after a failed assassination attempt on him, that was believed to be because of his association with a concert for the then Prime Minister of Jamaica Michael Manley.  He escaped to the Bahamas to recover from his injuries and then lived in England for two years where he recorded this album that speaks of political oppression, Rasta ideals on love and peace, and the human condition.  Reggae music was cultivated out of Jamaica's ska scene and mixed with American r&b from the 60's and has many sub-genres, Exodus is pure Roots Reggae.  Bob was the voice for the poorest of the poor in his native Jamaica but he also spoke for those in Zion (or Africa) where the Rastafari believe paradise to be.  With Exodus, Bob brought reggae music to the world and gave it legitimacy.  It would allow artists like Jimmy Cliff, Lee "Scratch" Perry and original Wailer Peter Tosh to enjoy mild success with international audiences.

 I find it unfortunate that Bob's likeness is plastered all over t-shirts and posters as simply a sales ploy;  pandering to a mindless drug culture. His importance to music and mankind can be felt with every listen to this album.  Time magazine named Exodus the greatest album of the 20th century and I feel it would be doing those who participate in this blog a disservice by not making this required listening. This is also incredible summertime music, perfect for driving with all the windows down and backyard gatherings.

Favorite tracks: Waiting In Vain, Three Little Birds, Natural Mystic