Overview
“Legend” is a compilation album that contains singles by Bob Marley and the Wailers (1963–1981), a Jamaican reggae band led by Bob Marley (guitar, lead vocals). It contains songs recorded in 1972–1983.
Commentary
The album was released by Island Records in 1984. It reached number one on the UK Albums Chart and number five on the US Billboard 200.
The album sold over 12 million copies in the US, over 3.3 million in the UK, and over 28 million copies worldwide, and it became the best-selling reggae album of all-time.
It is a collection of roots reggae classics by the Wailers, which are characterized by its offbeat rhythm by staccato guitar, equalized bass with the lower frequencies emphasized, slow tempo, pop vocal melodies, spiritual and political lyrics influenced by the Rastafari movement.
It is recommended as an introduction or the first choice for those who start listening to reggae.
The album includes three songs by the original Wailers (1963–1974): “Stir It Up”, “I Shot the Sheriff” and “Get Up, Stand Up”, and all the ten of Marley’s Top 40 hit singles in the UK: “No Woman, No Cry” (number 8), “Exodus” (number 14), “Waiting in Vain” (numbered 27), “Jamming” / “Punky Reggae Party” (number 9), “One Love/People Get Ready” (number 5), “Is This Love” (number 9), “Satisfy My Soul” (number 21), “Could You Be Loved” (number 5), “Three Little Birds” (number 17), and “Buffalo Soldier” (number 4).
The original LP contains 14 tracks. The 2002 remastered edition includes two bonus tracks.
