Bob Marley & The Wailers “Stir It Up” with Sarkodie
Reggae legends, Bob Marley and The Wailers usher in the new year with a reimagining of the classic “Stir It Up,” in collaboration with Ghanaian rap icon, Sarkodie. On this new version, we see the Caribbean and Africa unite for one of the most recognizable songs in the world to give us romance and nostalgia.
Produced by M.O.G Beatz (3music Awards’ Producer Of The Year for four consecutive years, and 2021’s Vodaphone Ghana Music Awards’ Producer Of The Year), the new track combines the signature guitar strums and soothing bounce we know and love, with Sarkodie’s iconic flow. ‘Stir It Up’ will connect generations, continents and more!
Since its release on January 20th, “Stir It Up” has racked up impressive streaming figures and social media hits worldwide, most notably in Ghana, where #BobMarley trended at number one and #StirItUp trended at number four for several days. Sarkodie also participated in a Twitter Spaces session that drew more than 7000 people.
Bob Marley is one of the most legendary figures in modern music; his influence is immeasurable. The Jamaican singer, musician, and songwriter inspires with social activism and politically conscious lyrics fused with elements of lovers-rock, ska and rocksteady.
As a pioneer of Reggae, Bob Marley was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. In December 1999, his 1977 album Exodus was named Album Of The Century by Time Magazine and his song “One Love” was designated Song Of The Millennium by the BBC.
With a career spanning almost 20 years, Sarkodie is one of the most successful African rappers of all time. He was the first winner of BET’s Best International Flow category at the 2019 BET Hip Hop Awards, and he was crowned Vodafone Ghana Music Awards’ Artist Of The Decade. Sarkodie’s signature pace, cadence, and wit permeates every track, and this latest offering is no different.
When speaking on this historic collaboration with Bob Marley, Sarkodie said:
“What a way to kick start this year! Definitely one of the highest moments in my career/life… It’s been a BIG torture keeping quiet about this particular project but I guess it’s always the best when timing is right. Big shouts to the team at Island records, my team and the Marley family for getting me on this amazing project with the legend Bob Marley. Such a blessing to lay my vocals right next to the original vocals of the legend…I will be sharing how the whole process happened… for now, get ready to enjoy the remake of Bob Marley’s ‘Stir It Up‘ produced by M.O.G”
READ ALSO: Sarkodie reacts to his Bob Marley feature
The official music video for “Stir It Up” showcases the vibrant relationship between Jamaica and Ghana. With Sarkodie leading on creative direction, these Ghana-shot visuals authentically explore identity, unity and community.
Premiering on the Bob Marley YouTube channel, the new video quickly amassed more than half a million views and thousands of supportive comments from fans around the world. Watch it below.
Source: Foundation Media / Tuff Gong International
Oral Ofori is Founder and Publisher at www.TheAfricanDream.net, a digital storyteller and producer, and also an information and research consultant.