Bob Marley – Survival

• Category: Album

• Title: Survival

• Artist: Bob Marley

• Released: October 2, 1979.

• Genres: Political Reggae, Reggae, Roots Reggae

Album Background

Release Date and Label

Survival was released on October 2, 1979, by Island Records. This album was Bob Marley’s tenth studio album and came at a time when Marley was deeply engaged in political activism and global issues.

Artist Context

By the late 1970s, Bob Marley had solidified his place as a major international artist. Survival was released during a period of intense political unrest and economic hardship in Africa, which significantly influenced the album’s themes. Marley was increasingly using his platform to address issues of colonialism, oppression, and the fight for freedom.

Concept and Inspiration

Themes and Messages

Survival is heavily focused on themes of resistance, empowerment, and the struggle for freedom. The album addresses issues of political and social injustice, particularly in Africa. Its lyrics reflect Marley’s support for African liberation movements and his commitment to advocating for the oppressed. The album’s overarching message is one of resilience and the fight for survival against adversity.

Inspiration

The album was inspired by Marley’s observations of the political and social struggles facing Africa. The struggles of various liberation movements, including those in Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, were key influences on the album. Marley’s own Rastafarian beliefs and commitment to social justice also played a significant role in shaping the album’s content and message.

Writing and Recording Process

Songwriting and Recording

The songwriting for Survival was done by Bob Marley and the Wailers, with a focus on creating music that would both inspire and mobilize listeners. Recording took place at Tuff Gong Studios in Kingston, Jamaica, and the album was characterized by its strong political message and distinctive reggae sound.

Notable Collaborations

The album features contributions from The Wailers, including Aston “Family Man” Barrett on bass and Carlton Barrett on drums. The I-Threes, comprising Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, and Marcia Griffiths, provided backing vocals, adding depth and harmony to the tracks.

Production Details

Producers and Sound

• Key Producers: Bob Marley and The Wailers, with Chris Blackwell contributing as a co-producer.
• Sound and Musical Style: Survival features a roots reggae sound with a strong emphasis on rhythm and message. The album is marked by its deep basslines, powerful drumming, and Marley’s commanding vocals. The production is both raw and polished, combining traditional reggae elements with a more sophisticated musical approach.

Track-by-Track Analysis

• Track Listing:

  1. “Survival”
  2. “Zimbabwe”
  3. “Top Rankin'”
  4. “Babylon System”
  5. “Survival”
  6. “Wake Up and Live”
  7. “Africa Unite”
  8. “One Drop”
  9. “Ride Natty Ride”
  10. “Crisis”

Key Tracks:

• “Zimbabwe”: This track is a tribute to the Zimbabwean liberation movement and celebrates the country’s struggle for independence from colonial rule. The song’s energetic rhythm and powerful lyrics reflect Marley’s solidarity with the people of Zimbabwe.
• “Babylon System”: “Babylon System” addresses themes of political and social oppression, criticizing the corrupt systems that perpetuate injustice. Its strong lyrics and driving beat make it a standout track that underscores the album’s commitment to advocacy and resistance.
• “Africa Unite”: “Africa Unite” is a call for African unity and solidarity. The song’s uplifting message and rhythmic drive emphasize Marley’s vision of a unified continent, overcoming colonial and racial divisions.
• “Wake Up and Live”: This track is an anthem of resilience and empowerment, encouraging listeners to rise above adversity and live fully. The song’s infectious rhythm and motivating lyrics embody the album’s central theme of survival and determination.

Awards and Nominations

Awards and Nominations

Survival did not win any major awards at the time of its release, but it has been critically acclaimed for its political message and musical quality. The album is regarded as a significant work in Marley’s discography, reflecting his commitment to social justice.

Sales and Charts

Survival achieved moderate commercial success, reaching number 44 on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. It was also well-received in the UK, where it peaked at number 16 on the Albums Chart. The album’s impact was felt more in its cultural significance and political message rather than its chart performance.

Impact and Legacy

Influence and Long-term Impact

Survival is recognized for its powerful political statements and its role in raising awareness about global issues. The album reinforced Bob Marley’s reputation as a voice for the oppressed and a champion of social justice. Its influence extends beyond music, impacting political and social movements and continuing to inspire activists and musicians worldwide.

Conclusion

Summary

Survival is a compelling album that showcases Bob Marley’s dedication to addressing political and social issues through his music. Its themes of resistance and empowerment, combined with Marley’s powerful delivery and the album’s roots reggae sound, make it a significant work in his career.

Final Thoughts

Survival stands out as a bold statement of Marley’s commitment to global justice and unity. The album’s message and musical impact ensure its place as a key work in Marley’s discography, reflecting his role as a global advocate for change and resilience.