10 Perfect Albums That Defined The 1970s

By the mid 1970s, Bob Marley was well established on the world stage. But, his fame in Jamaica was unbridled. He was seen as a sign of change and hope by many. But, others perceived his wild popularity, as dangerous.

Jamaica was at war with itself during the '70s. Prime Minister Michael Manley, was a proponent of democratic socialism. In the eyes of America, this was akin to all-out communism. The American government threw their weight behind, Manely's rival Edward Seaga. Political killings were rampant, and violence was a daily occurrence.

Marley had been keen to avoid political affiliation, and instead tried to preach unity. When he agreed to perform at government funded, free concert, it was seen as an endorsement of Michael Manley. Days before he was scheduled to appear, Marley was shot in an assassination attempt. He nevertheless took to the stage two days later, but left the country in self-imposed exile, shortly after.

Despite all efforts to remain unpolitical, Marley felt forced to address the troubles. His next album, Exodus, was his responce. He directly referred to the assassination attempt; made his distain for violence clear, and rejected both warring factions in Jamaica.

Instead, he urged for unity through Rastafarianism. America's protest singer's might have given up the fight, but in Jamaica the sentiment of peaceful revolution was burning strong.