This fifth effort by reggae music’s global ambassador took the genre to an international level of success with classics like “Stir It Up” and “No More Trouble,” as well as two contributions by Wailer guitarist Peter Tosh, “400 Years” and “Stop That Train.” As their first album for a fledgling Island Records, the label’s founder—producer Chris Blackwell—arranged a few sporadic overdubs from a guitarist from Muscle Shoals (the famous studio session band behind Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, etc.). Alternating love songs with social consciousness was Marley’s winning formula. Catch a Fire makes for a shining example.

– Miles Marshall Lewis