Waiting In Vain
A 1977 reggae classic from Exodus that reached number 27 on the UK Singles Chart.
Waiting In Vain is a reggae ballad written by Bob Marley and recorded by Bob Marley and the Wailers for their 1977 album Exodus. Released as a single, it reached number 27 on the UK Singles Chart. The track stands out in the group's discography not only for its melodic warmth but also for its unique single release history, featuring a non-album B-side that adds depth to its legacy.
Quick Facts
- Artist
- Bob Marley & the Wailers
- Album
- Exodus
- B-side
- Roots
- Released
- 1977
- Genre
- Reggae
- Length
- 4:15
- Label
- Tuff Gong, Island
- Writer
- Bob Marley
Lore & Background
The single version of this song is notable for being one of only a few Island singles by Marley to feature a non-album B-side. That B-side was the track "Roots," which was originally released as a non-album single in 1972 and later appeared on the 1975 compilation 'Rasta Revolution' and later on 'Rebel Music' (1986), not on the 1979 studio album 'Survival'. This specific recording later found new life on the compilation Rebel Music and on the Exodus (Deluxe Edition). In 1981, the release received another transformation when it was reissued, but contrary to some claims, it typically retained "Roots" as the B-side rather than featuring "Satisfy My Soul" or a live version.
Reader's Guide
Listeners looking to understand the song's variations should note the distinct differences between its releases. The original 1977 single paired the track with "Roots," an outtake from Rastaman Vibration, whereas the 1981 reissue swapped this for the Marley Mix Up Medley. Fans of extended performances can seek out the rare 19-minute acoustic version on YouTube. The song's chart performance is also well-documented, having peaked at number 27 on the UK Singles Chart upon its initial release as a single.
Track listing
| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Waiting in Vain (Single Mix) | 4:07 |
| 2 | No More 'I Love You's' (Junior Vasquez Mix) | 7:32 |
| 3 | Waiting in Vain (Strong Body Mix) | 5:27 |
| 4 | Medusa (Interview excerpts) | 5:01 |
More in Songs & Singles
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