Bob Marley’s “Natural Mystic” Achieves Historic Silver Certification in the UK
Bob Marley and The Wailers have reached a historic milestone as “Natural Mystic” becomes the band’s first non-Legend track to earn a Silver certification in the United Kingdom. The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) issued the BRIT Certified Silver award on December 13, after the song surpassed 200,000 units in sales, as confirmed by The Official Charts Company.
This achievement marks Marley’s 15th certified track in the UK, where his music continues to enjoy enduring popularity. Seven of his songs have already reached Platinum status or higher, further solidifying his legacy as one of reggae’s most iconic artists.
Originally recorded in 1975, “Natural Mystic” was later re-recorded for Marley’s seminal 1977 album Exodus, produced at Island Records’ Basing Street Studios in London. Known for its meditative opening and contemplative message, the track blends profound lyrics with an unforgettable arrangement. The haunting bassline, Carly Barrett’s consistent drum rhythms, and majestic horn sections create a somber yet hopeful tone, echoing Marley’s vision of spiritual reckoning and unity.
The song also featured prominently on the Natural Mystic: The Legend Lives On compilation album, released in 1995. This collection, which peaked at No. 5 on the UK Albums Chart, offered a deeper exploration of Marley’s politically charged and reflective works, setting it apart from the love-centric focus of the Legend compilation. Tracks such as “Africa Unite,” “So Much Trouble In The World,” and “Crazy Baldhead” showcased Marley’s commitment to social justice and global consciousness, while songs like “Easy Skanking” and “Time Will Tell” brought warmth and personal resolve to the mix.
Despite its historic recognition, the Legend album continues to dominate Bob Marley’s discography in the UK. All tracks from the deluxe edition have achieved Silver or higher certifications, with the exception of “Easy Skanking.” Leading the catalog, “Three Little Birds” holds 3x Platinum status (1.8 million units sold), followed by “Is This Love” and “Could You Be Loved,” each achieving 2x Platinum with over 1.2 million units sold.
Other Platinum-certified hits include “No Woman, No Cry,” “Jamming,” “One Love,” and “Buffalo Soldier” (600,000 units each). Marley’s Gold certifications include “Stir It Up,” “Waiting In Vain,” and “Redemption Song” (400,000 units), while Silver-certified tracks include “Get Up, Stand Up,” “I Shot The Sheriff,” and “Satisfy My Soul” (200,000 units each).
Additionally, the 2016 remix of “Is This Love” featuring LVNDSCAPE and Bolier earned a Gold certification, underscoring Marley’s cross-generational influence.
This latest milestone for “Natural Mystic” highlights the timeless power of Bob Marley’s music. Nearly five decades after its release, Marley’s message of unity, justice, and spirituality continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, cementing his status as an unparalleled musical force.
