Check out these new and used Rita Marley vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Rita Marley vinyl collection with the essential albums Who Feels It, Knows It, We Must Carry On and Harambe. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from reggae musicians.

Rita Marley: A Musical Journey through Time

Early Years and Formation

Rita Marley Vinyl, often hailed as the matriarch of reggae music, has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. Born Alpharita Anderson on July 25, 1946, in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, she later became Rita Marley after marrying the legendary Bob Marley. Rita Marley’s musical journey began in the 1960s when she joined The Soulettes, a vocal trio consisting of Marley, her cousin Constantine “Dream” Walker, and Marlene “Precious” Gifford.

As The Soulettes gained popularity, they caught the attention of legendary producer Clement “Coxsone” Dodd, leading to their first recording, “I Love You Baby,” in 1964. The group continued to produce soulful, ska-influenced tracks, showcasing Rita Marley’s powerful vocals and undeniable stage presence. Here are the Rita Marley Tracks and Albums.

The Wailers Era

In 1966, Rita Marley’s life took a significant turn when she married Bob Marley, a pivotal figure in the reggae movement. With this union came her integration into The Wailers, a band already making waves in the Jamaican music scene. Rita contributed backing vocals and provided a harmonious counterpoint to Bob Marley’s distinctive voice.

Albums of Note

“Catch a Fire” (1973)

One of the seminal albums in The Wailers’ discography, “Catch a Fire” marked their international breakthrough. Although Rita Marley’s vocal presence is more subdued on this album, her influence is felt in the background harmonies that added depth to tracks like “Stir It Up” and “Slave Driver.”

“Burnin'” (1973)

Released in the same year as “Catch a Fire,” “Burnin'” continued to solidify The Wailers’ global impact. Rita Marley’s vocal contributions shine in the socially charged anthem “Get Up, Stand Up,” where her harmonies complement Bob Marley’s call to action.

Rita Marley’s Solo Career

After Bob Marley’s untimely death in 1981, Rita Marley embarked on a solo career, carrying forward the reggae torch. Her debut solo album, “Who Feels It Knows It” (1980), showcased her versatility as an artist, exploring themes of love, loss, and spirituality.

Albums of Note

“Harambe” (1982)

Rita Marley’s sophomore album, “Harambe,” demonstrated her commitment to Pan-Africanism and unity. The title track, a Swahili word meaning “pull together,” encapsulates the album’s message of solidarity. Rita’s soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics make this album a timeless testament to her resilience.

“We Must Carry On” (1996)

With this album, Rita Marley continued to honor Bob Marley’s legacy while carving her own path. “We Must Carry On” features tracks like “Good Morning Jah” and “A Jah Jah,” where Rita’s vocals convey a profound connection to her Rastafarian beliefs.

Influence and Legacy

Rita Marley’s impact extends beyond her own recordings, influencing subsequent generations of reggae artists. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, spirituality, and the African diaspora resonates in the work of contemporary musicians.

Similar Bands

The I-Three (Bob Marley and the Wailers’ backing vocalists)

The I-Three, consisting of Marcia Griffiths, Judy Mowatt, and Rita Marley, played a crucial role in shaping the sound of Bob Marley and the Wailers. Their harmonies and stage presence set a standard for reggae backing vocals, influencing bands like…

Steel Pulse

With their socially conscious lyrics and roots reggae sound, Steel Pulse draws parallels to The Wailers and Rita Marley’s solo work. Their album “True Democracy” reflects a similar commitment to using music as a tool for social change.

Influence on Contemporary Artists

Chronixx

As a leading figure in the reggae revival movement, Chronixx incorporates elements of traditional reggae and Rastafarian philosophy, echoing the spirit of Rita Marley’s solo endeavors. His album “Chronology” pays homage to reggae’s roots while pushing the genre forward.

Janelle Monáe

Beyond reggae, Rita Marley’s impact extends to artists like Janelle Monáe, who, inspired by Marley’s activism, infuses her music with social commentary. Monáe’s album “Dirty Computer” explores themes of identity and empowerment.

Conclusion

Rita Marley Vinyl’s multifaceted career, spanning from The Soulettes to her solo endeavors, has left an indelible mark on reggae music. Her ability to seamlessly blend soulful melodies with profound lyrics reflects her commitment to social justice and spirituality. As her influence reverberates through the work of contemporary artists, Rita Marley Vinyl’s legacy remains as enduring as the reggae rhythms that first captivated audiences in the 1960s.