Burning Spear's seminal 1975 album, Marcus Garvey, is a powerful tribute to the legendary Jamaican political leader and Pan-African activist. This iconic roots reggae album, released on 12 December 1975, is a testament to Burning Spear's ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The album's 10 tracks, including the titular 'Marcus Garvey', 'Slavery Days', and 'Red, Gold And Green', showcase the band's unique blend of reggae, dub, rocksteady, and ragga styles.
With a duration of just 33 minutes, Marcus Garvey is a concise yet impactful collection of songs that pay homage to the life and legacy of Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican National Hero and Rastafari movement prophet. Burning Spear's third album, recorded with the help of Ocho Rios sound system operator Lawrence "Jack Ruby" Lindo, marked a significant milestone in the band's career, and its influence can still be felt today.
The album has been widely acclaimed and has been reissued several times, including a compilation with its dub version, Garvey's Ghost. Marcus Garvey is a must-listen for fans of Burning Spear and roots reggae, offering a unique glimpse into the band's early sound and their ability to create music that is both a celebration of their heritage and a call to action. With its release on Mercury Records, Marcus Garvey has become an essential part of any reggae collection, and its impact continues to be felt over 45 years after its initial release.