The song “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley is an iconic reggae track that was released on Marley’s 1977 album Exodus. The song only contains three chords throughout, which is part of what gives it such a light and breezy feel. In this article, we will look at what the three chords are and discuss some details about the song’s history, meaning, and legacy.
What Are the Three Chords?
The three chords used in “Three Little Birds” are:
A Major
This is the I chord and root chord of the song’s key. The A major chord contains the notes A, C#, and E. On guitar, it is fretted 022200.
F# Minor
This ii chord acts as a minor four chord in the key of A major. F# minor contains F#, A, and C#. It is fretted 244222 on guitar.
D Major
The V chord in the key, D major contains D, F#, and A. It is fretted xx0232 on guitar.
So in summary, the three chords are:
| Chord | Notes | Guitar Fretting |
| A Major | A C# E | 022200 |
| F# Minor | F# A C# | 244222 |
| D Major | D F# A | xx0232 |
These three simple chords form the basis of the light, upbeat reggae groove of “Three Little Birds.” The chord progression repeats throughout the entire song.
Background and History
“Three Little Birds” comes from Bob Marley’s 1977 album Exodus, which was his ninth studio album. Exodus was hugely successful commercially and contains many of Marley’s most beloved songs, including “Jamming,” “Waiting in Vain,” “One Love/People Get Ready,” and of course “Three Little Birds.”
The song was written by Marley himself and the recording features Marley singing and playing acoustic guitar, backed by his band The Wailers. The exact recording date is unknown but it was recorded at Marley’s home studio in Kingston, Jamaica in 1976-77.
The song was not originally released as a single but over time it became one of Marley’s most popular tracks. In 1980, after Marley’s death, the song was released as a single in the UK and reached the Top 20 on the charts.
Over the years “Three Little Birds” has been covered by numerous artists including Ziggy Marley, Jack Johnson, and Jason Mraz & RX Bandits. It remains one of Bob Marley’s most iconic and uplifting songs.
Meaning and Symbolism
Like many of Marley’s songs, “Three Little Birds” carries a profound yet simple message. The three little birds are a metaphor for being carefree and not worrying. Marley is reassuring whoever he is singing to that “every little thing gonna be alright.”
In the lyrics, the birds are “singing sweet songs” and telling the listener “don’t worry about a thing.” So the birds represent remaining positive and hopeful even in difficult times. Their singing is meant to be reassuring.
The line “this is my message to you” emphasizes that Marley is personally communicating this uplifting message of hope directly to the listener. He is saying don’t worry, have faith, everything will work out.
So while the lyrics are light and catchy, they convey a meaningful, inspiriting theme. This combination of simple optimism and deep resonance is a big part of what has made the song so universally appealing.
Reaction and Legacy
“Three Little Birds” continues to touch and inspire listeners and musicians decades after its release. It remains one of Bob Marley’s most popular and well-known songs.
The song has taken on special significance after tragedies such as Hurricane Katrina and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, providing comfort and hope. It is seen as an anthem of optimism and resilience.
Marley’s family has worked to keep his music alive and connect it with new generations. His son Ziggy Marley recorded a version of “Three Little Birds” and performs it regularly in concert. Ziggy has said it is one of his favorite songs by his father.
The song’s uplifting lyrics about not worrying are frequently quoted, referenced, and paraphrased in popular culture. For example, the line “every little thing gonna be alright” has become almost proverbial.
Sports teams like the Boston Red Sox have played “Three Little Birds” at games to rally and inspire the hometown crowd. It is also popular at weddings and parties as a bright, feel-good song.
Overall the simplicity and positivity of “Three Little Birds” continues to give it a broad cultural appeal and impact. Over four decades since it was written, the song remains a cherished testament to Bob Marley’s legendary sound and uplifting message.
Chord Analysis
While the chord progression of “Three Little Birds” is straightforward, alternating between the I, ii, and V chords, it is worth analyzing a bit more closely to see what makes it work so effectively.
The constant returning to the I chord (A major) gives the progression a bright, rootsy sound. The A major creates a sense of familiarity for listener – it is the tonal center of the song.
Using the ii chord (F# minor) before going to the V chord (D major) creates more motion and musical interest than just going back and forth between the I and V. The F# minor leads our ear smoothly down into D major.
The V chord (D major) gives us that classic “going home” feel when it resolves back to the root A major chord. This satisfying resolution reinforces the upbeat, positive vibe of the song.
So while using only three chords, Marley was able to write a progression that has a pleasing musical flow. The repetition makes it memorable and singable, while the changes between chords provide enough harmonic interest and forward motion. This balance results in a catchy, feel-good backing for the song’s carefree lyrics.
Guitar and Bass Parts
The guitar parts in “Three Little Birds” also contribute to the light, breezy character of the song:
– Strummed acoustic guitar provides the rhythmic groove. Marley uses upbeat down strums, varying between a chord per bar and two chords per bar. This gives motion and syncopation.
– Subtle use of open A string drones creates a riff-like counterpoint to the chord strumming. The drones reinforce the tonal center of A major.
– Described as a “scratch” or “bubble” effect, skanking muted guitar 16th notes fill in during gaps in the vocals. This keeps the rhythmic interest going.
The bass generally plays the root of each chord on the downbeat, also outlining the chord changes. On an upbeat reggae song like this, the bass and guitar work together to provide a bouncy rhythmic foundation.
Overall the guitar and bass parts act as the perfect springy accompaniment to Marley’s uplifting vocals and lyrics. Their catchy simplicity matches the song’s enduring appeal.
Cover Versions
“Three Little Birds” has been covered extensively by many artists in different genres. Here are some noteworthy covers:
– Ziggy Marley – Ziggy has covered the song both live and in the studio, including on his 2014 children’s album Fly Rasta. His version features bright horns and percussion.
– Jack Johnson – The laidback rock/folk singer recorded a popular, mellow acoustic cover for the soundtrack of the 2010 Eddie Murphy/Kerry Washington film Meet Dave.
– Jason Mraz & RX Bandits – Pop singer Mraz and ska-punk band RX Bandits collaborated on a whimsical 2009 cover that blended both their styles.
– SoySauce – This reggae band from California recorded a very faithful 2020 cover staying true to the original.
– Me First and the Gimme Gimmes – The punk cover supergroup recorded a raucous, upbeat punk version for their 2014 album Are We Not Men? We Are Diva!
Artists from rock, reggae, folk, and ska have all embraced “Three Little Birds” and interpreted the timeless song in their own styles. These covers demonstrate the wide appeal of Marley’s music and lyrics.
Live Performances
Bob Marley & The Wailers regularly performed “Three Little Birds” during Marley’s lifetime, often as part of encores. Some notable live versions include:
Rainbow Theatre, London 1977 – An excellent early live version with Marley’s laidback singing and guitar work backed by harmonizing Wailers. Great keyboard solo by Tyrone Downie.
Santa Barbara 1979 – One of Marley’s most animated live takes on the track, really selling the uplifting vibe. Extended guitar soloing by Al Anderson.
Deeside Leisure Centre 1980 – The final concert of Marley’s last tour shows him still in good spirits leading a singalong version.
Since Marley’s passing, his family has continued playing the song live. Some notable versions:
Ziggy Marley at 2012 Kaya Fest – An outdoor festival version with Ziggy singing his father’s words and his own children joining him onstage.
The Marley Brothers on 1997’s VH1 Storytellers – Ziggy, Stephen, Damian, and Julian Marley performed a moving acoustic version. Julian played guitar in place of his father.
Catch A Fire Tour 2018 – Stephen Marley, who played with his father in the 70s, led a version on The Wailers’ recent tour with guest Chronixx.
Marley’s sons and bandmates ensure his iconic songs stay alive on stage. These live takes show that decades later, “Three Little Birds” still uplifts audiences.
In Popular Culture
Beyond music, “Three Little Birds” has permeated pop culture in many forms:
– Television – It has featured in shows like Glee, Scrubs, and Chuck. An episode of Futurama was titled “Three Hundred Big Boys.”
– Film – The song appeared in the credits of films like 50 First Dates and I, Robot.
– Sports – The Boston Red Sox adopted the song after being inspired by a boy who survived an accident. Songs lyrics are referenced in sports chants.
– Politics – Barack Obama quoted the song on the campaign trail and at as President to inspire hope.
– Literature – Marley’s lyrics are referenced in works ranging from Neil Gaiman’s Fortunately, the Milk to Dave Eggers’ Zeitoun.
– Comics – A 2019 Snoopy comic strip showed Woodstock whistling “Three Little Birds.”
From TV to books to politics, the song’s uplifting message has become a cultural touchstone. “Don’t worry about a thing” remains words to live by.
Conclusion
Decades after its release, “Three Little Birds” endures as one of Bob Marley’s most beloved anthems. Its simple lyrics and chords carry a profound message of hope and reassurance.
While the recording features only acoustic guitar, bass, and percussion, its light rhythmic feel perfectly suits the uplifting lyrics. Countless artists have covered the song in their own styles.
Beyond music, the song’s inspirational words are referenced widely in pop culture – from TV to movies to politics. People continue to turn to “Three Little Birds” both in good times and bad.
Bob Marley crafted a true classic – the kind of song a musician aspires to write just once in their career. Though sadly Marley passed away young, his music lives on, and “Three Little Birds” especially continues to lift spirits and touch hearts. Its warming message will doubtlessly resonate for generations to come.
