Released in 1978 on Bob Marley and the Wailers' *Kaya* album, "Is This Love" is one of the most beloved songs in Marley's iconic discography. The song quickly became a global anthem, symbolizing the purity and simplicity of love through its heartfelt lyrics, timeless reggae rhythm, and Marley's soothing vocal delivery. Decades later, "Is This Love" remains an enduring testament to Marley’s ability to capture universal emotions and package them in a way that resonates with listeners across cultures and generations.
### The Lyrics and Meaning
At its core, "Is This Love" is a song about romantic love, devotion, and the deep connection shared between two people. The lyrics are simple yet profound, as Marley expresses a pure desire to build a life with someone he loves:
*"I wanna love you and treat you right,
I wanna love you every day and every night."*
These lines convey a sense of unconditional commitment. Marley isn’t just singing about love as an emotion but as an action—something that is expressed daily through care, devotion, and respect. The repetition of these lines throughout the song emphasizes the steadfastness of the love Marley is singing about.
In the chorus, Marley asks a poignant question:
*"Is this love, is this love, is this love,
Is this love that I’m feelin’?"*
This question captures the vulnerability and wonder that often accompanies love. Marley portrays love not as a certainty, but as a feeling that grows and evolves. The song perfectly conveys the emotional complexity of love—the joy, the curiosity, and the excitement that comes with finding someone you truly care for.
### Bob Marley's Signature Reggae Sound
Musically, "Is This Love" is quintessentially reggae. It features the signature laid-back rhythm and offbeat guitar strumming that defines the genre. The song’s groove is infectious, with a relaxed tempo and syncopated rhythm that gives it a buoyant, uplifting feel. This easy-going sound contrasts with the intensity of the emotion Marley expresses, creating a balance that draws the listener in.
The Wailers, Marley's backing band, play a key role in shaping the sound of the song. The subtle interplay between the bass, drums, and keyboards creates a hypnotic groove that supports Marley’s voice without overpowering it. The harmonies provided by the I-Threes (Rita Marley, Marcia Griffiths, and Judy Mowatt) add another layer of richness to the song, enhancing the overall feeling of warmth and unity.
### The Impact and Legacy
Since its release, "Is This Love" has become one of Bob Marley’s signature songs, a staple at his live performances and a fan favorite around the world. The song’s universal message of love, coupled with its catchy rhythm, made it a global hit, and it continues to be played on radio stations and at parties and gatherings to this day.
The song’s influence extends beyond the world of reggae. It has been covered and interpreted by numerous artists across different genres, further cementing its status as a timeless classic. Notably, British singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae covered "Is This Love" in 2011, bringing a fresh, soulful take to the song while staying true to its original spirit.
### A Song of Hope and Unity
Like much of Bob Marley’s music, "Is This Love" goes beyond just being a love song. Marley was a master at weaving messages of hope, peace, and unity into his songs, and "Is This Love" is no different. The song isn’t just about romantic love—it’s also about the kind of love that can bring people together and make the world a better place.
In Marley’s vision, love is a powerful force that transcends boundaries. Whether it’s the love between two people, the love of a community, or the love of humanity as a whole, the message is clear: love is what binds us together, and it’s what makes life worth living.
### Conclusion
"Is This Love" by Bob Marley and the Wailers is more than just a song—it’s an anthem of love, unity, and devotion. Its timeless message, paired with its infectious reggae beat, has made it a favorite for generations of listeners. Marley’s ability to convey deep emotions in such a simple, relatable way is what makes this song so special. Whether you’re listening for the first time or the hundredth, "Is This Love" continues to capture the essence of what it means to love and be loved.