Bob Marley & The Wailers’ timeless album “Legend” continues to cement its legacy, earning an impressive 15X Platinum certification in the UK, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) announced. This milestone reflects over 4.5 million sales and streams in the region, up from 14X Platinum (4.2 million units) in August 2022.
Originally released by Island Records in 1984, three years after Marley’s passing, “Legend” remains one of the most beloved albums worldwide. Packed with classics like “Three Little Birds,” “Is This Love,” and “Could You Be Loved,” the album has captivated generations with its blend of reggae, soul, and activism. It includes tracks from Marley’s time with The Wailers, featuring Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer, as well as his solo career.
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Currently in its 1,169th week on the UK Albums Chart, sitting at No. 58, “Legend” holds one of the longest chart runs in history—second only to ABBA’s Gold: Greatest Hits, which boasts 1,184 weeks. With this latest certification, Legend is tied with Michael Jackson’s Thriller and Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms as the sixth best-selling album in UK history. Leading the rankings is Queen’s Greatest Hits (23X Platinum), followed by ABBA’s Gold (22X Platinum), and Adele’s 21 and The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (18X Platinum each).
The tracks on “Legend” are a testament to Marley’s enduring influence. The album features 10 of his top 40 UK singles, including:
- Three Little Birds: Certified 3X Platinum (1.8 million units), making it the best-selling track from the album.
- Is This Love and Could You Be Loved: Both certified 2X Platinum (1.2 million units each).
- Platinum-certified hits include “No Woman, No Cry,” “One Love/People Get Ready,” “Jamming,” and “Buffalo Soldier” (600,000 units each).
- Gold certifications (400,000 units each) include “Redemption Song,” “Stir It Up,” and “Waiting In Vain.”
- Silver-certified tracks (200,000 units each) include “Exodus,” “I Shot The Sheriff,” “Get Up Stand Up,” and “Satisfy My Soul.”
Beyond the UK, “Legend” has achieved remarkable success worldwide. It is certified 18X Platinum in the United States, Diamond in France, Platinum in Germany, 6X Platinum in Australia, 20X Platinum in New Zealand, and has multi-Platinum certifications in Belgium, Argentina, and Canada.
“Legend” is more than an album; it’s a cultural touchstone. Its success speaks to Bob Marley’s ability to unite people across borders with messages of love, resilience, and social justice. Decades after its release, the album continues to inspire and resonate, ensuring Marley’s legacy lives on in the hearts of listeners around the world.
