“One Love,” released in 1977 as part of Bob Marley & The Wailers’ Exodus album, is one of the most recognizable and enduring reggae songs of all time. With its uplifting message of unity, peace, and love, the song became an anthem for Marley’s Rastafarian beliefs and a global symbol of hope and togetherness. “One Love” is celebrated not only for its infectious rhythm and melody but also for its powerful message of compassion and unity.

About The Song

• Lyrics Interpretation: The lyrics of “One Love” emphasize unity, peace, and a call for mankind to come together in love and understanding. The line “One love, one heart, let’s get together and feel all right” encapsulates the song’s central message of harmony among people. Rooted in Marley’s Rastafarian faith, the song also reflects spiritual themes of togetherness, equality, and justice. The reference to divine judgment—”Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right”—reinforces the connection between love for one another and a higher spiritual purpose.
• Cultural Impact: “One Love” has become a universal anthem for peace and love, transcending its reggae roots to reach audiences around the world. Its message of unity and hope resonated deeply during the political and social turbulence of the 1970s and continues to inspire movements for peace, justice, and equality today. Over the years, “One Love” has been used in numerous humanitarian campaigns and remains one of the most recognized songs promoting unity and positive change.
• Song Legacy: “One Love” remains one of Bob Marley’s most enduring songs, cementing his legacy as both a musician and a humanitarian. The song is frequently included in lists of the greatest songs of all time and continues to be played at concerts, political rallies, and social events advocating for peace. Its universal appeal has made it a staple in popular culture, from advertisements to film soundtracks, keeping Marley’s message alive for new generations.
• Cover Versions: “One Love” has been covered by numerous artists across genres, further showcasing its wide-reaching influence. Notable covers include versions by Playing for Change, a collaboration of musicians from around the world, and an adaptation by the Glee cast. Each version captures the spirit of the original while bringing new energy to the song’s timeless message of unity.
• Songwriting Inspiration: Bob Marley originally wrote “One Love” in 1965, and it was first recorded by The Wailers in 1965 as a ska track. However, the 1977 version on Exodus is the most famous, blending Marley’s early ska influences with a more polished reggae sound. The song draws inspiration from Marley’s Rastafarian beliefs, which emphasize the importance of love and unity in both spiritual and social contexts. “One Love” reflects Marley’s deep desire for a world where people can coexist peacefully, regardless of race, class, or religion.

“One Love” remains a defining song not just in Bob Marley’s catalog but also in the history of music, embodying themes of unity, love, and peace that continue to resonate with listeners around the globe. Its message of togetherness and hope is as relevant today as it was in 1977, making it a timeless anthem for humanity.

Video

Lyric

[Chorus]
One love, one heart
Let’s get together and feel alright
Hear the children cryin’ (One love)
Hear the children cryin’ (One heart)
Sayin’, “Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel alright”
Sayin’, “Let’s get together and feel alright, woah-woah-woah-woah”

[Verse 1]
Let them all pass all their dirty remarks (One love)
There is one question I’d really love to ask (One heart)
Is there a place for the hopeless sinners
Who has hurt all mankind just to save his own beliefs?

[Chorus]
One love (What about the one heart?), one heart (What about the—)
Let’s get together and feel alright (As it was in the beginning)
One love (So shall it be in the end), one heart (Alright)
Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel alright
Let’s get together and feel alright, one more thing

[Verse 2]
Let’s get together to fight this Holy Armagiddyon (One love)
So when the Man comes, there will be no, no doom (One song)
Have pity on those whose chances grows thinner
There ain’t no hiding place from the Father of Creation, singing

[Chorus]
One love (What about the one heart?), one heart (What about the—)
Let’s get together and feel alright (I’m pleadin’ to mankind)
One love (Oh, Lord), one heart (Woah)
Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel alright
Let’s get together and feel alright
Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel alright
Let’s get together and feel alright