"Natty Dread" is the seventh album by Bob Marley and the Wailers, released on October 25, 1974. This album marked Marley's first release without Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer. It was particularly well-received in the UK, peaking at No. 43 and selling over 100,000 copies, earning a gold certification. Over time, it gained popularity globally, and in 2003, it was ranked No. 181 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.
Natty Dread is a politically and socially charged work. It opens with "Lively Up Yourself," a blues-influenced celebration of reggae culture. The track "No Woman, No Cry" is one of the album's most famous songs, reflecting on Marley's childhood in Trenchtown, Jamaica, and the warmth of friendship during hard times. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Boney M. and The Fugees. The song's writing credit went to Vincent Ford, a childhood friend who supported Marley during difficult times.
Other notable tracks include "Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)," which warns against the dangers of hunger among the poor, and "Talkin' Blues" and "Revolution," which delve into political themes. "Rebel Music (3 O'Clock Roadblock)" addresses the social impact of reggae music. Religious themes are evident in songs like "So Jah S'eh," while "Bend Down Low" showcases Marley's romantic side. The title track personifies the Rastafari movement, with "Natty Dread" symbolizing its ideals.
While the album lists multiple songwriters in its liner notes, all songs were primarily written by Marley. Due to a contractual dispute with his former publishing company, Cayman Music, Marley credited some songs to friends and family to avoid restrictions and provide financial assistance to them. This led to legal disputes, but the court ultimately ruled in favor of Marley's estate.
Natty Dread was released by Island and Tuff Gong. In 2001, a remastered edition was released featuring a bonus track. Although there were plans for a Quadraphonic release in 1975, it did not materialize, though bootlegged versions of some mixes are available online.
