Drum Sheet – Bob Marley & The Wailers – Could You Be Loved

“Could You Be Loved” is one of Bob Marley’s most rhythmically infectious tracks—a blend of reggae, funk, and pop sensibilities that delivers a compelling groove from start to finish. Released in 1980 on Uprising, the final album issued in Marley’s lifetime, the song stands out not only for its uplifting message and danceable feel but also for its tight and polished production—especially the drumming, which plays a crucial role in shaping its hypnotic momentum.

The song was born during a jam session while Bob Marley and the Wailers were on tour in Brazil in 1979. Marley came up with the core guitar riff while backstage with his bandmates. They experimented with the groove, and what emerged was unlike anything they had recorded before. “Could You Be Loved” combined the laid-back swagger of reggae with a disco-influenced bounce and a streamlined arrangement that made it instantly accessible to a global audience.

For drum enthusiasts, the track is a masterclass in subtlety and control. Carlton “Carly” Barrett, the Wailers‘ legendary drummer, anchors the track with his signature one drop feel, but here, it’s more syncopated and propulsive. He uses the kick and rim clicks sparingly, focusing on a clean groove that dances around the beat rather than dominating it. His hi-hat work is crisp and steady, often double-timed, giving the rhythm a shimmering urgency that contrasts beautifully with the relaxed vocals. It’s a groove that feels simple but is deeply layered—precise, fluid, and irresistibly danceable.

“Could You Be Loved” became a concert favorite, especially during the Uprising Tour, Marley’s last before his death in 1981. The band often closed shows with the song, ending on a high-energy note that sent audiences home dancing. Its universal appeal—combined with that undeniable drum pocket—made it one of Marley’s biggest hits outside Jamaica.

Beyond the message of love and inclusion, it’s the groove that carries the song into timeless territory. For fans of drums, “Could You Be Loved” is a shining example of how restraint, rhythm, and musical chemistry can create something that moves both body and soul. Carlton Barrett’s drum track doesn’t shout—it grooves, and in doing so, it defines the song.