Despite the numerous covers and reinterpretations, it is Bob Marley and The Wailers’ original version of “Stir It Up” that has remained the most iconic over the years. The song becomes certified Gold in the U.K. on Friday August 23 for sales and streaming equivalents surpassing 400,000 units. The award was issued by the British Phonographic Industry with data from the Official Charts Company.
“Stir It Up” was composed and recorded in 1967 by Bob Marley and the Wailers, then Johnny Nash covered the song in 1972, for his 12th studio album I Can See Clearly Now. Nash’s version introduced the song to international audiences, particularly in the UK and US climbing to the 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, peaking at No. 6 on the Adult Contemporary chart. The song also reached No. 13 in the UK and top twenty in Canada and Ireland.
Re-recording for Catch a Fire
A year after Nash’s success with “Stir It Up,” Bob Marley and the Wailers re-recorded the track for their Island Records debut album Catch a Fire and this reimagined version, infused with the essence of reggae, solidified Marley’s place as a global artist.
The band performed “Stir It Up” live on The Old Grey Whistle Test during their first UK tour in 1973.
The love song marked Marley’s switch from his Ska roots into roots reggae love songs as he sings, “Stir it up, little darlin’, stir it up,” with a warm and softer tones.
Enduring Legacy
In 1993, Australian band The Black Sorrows released their rendition of the song, which achieved success in New Zealand, Iceland, and Australia. In 1994, Trinidadian-German Eurodance artist Haddaway also took a spin at the classic tune.
