In the realm of roots reggae, few albums resonate as profoundly as Burning Spear's "Social Living." Released in 1978, this classic album is a testament to the power of reggae music, blending social commentary with infectious rhythms. For music supervisors and content creators, "Social Living" presents a goldmine of sync licensing opportunities, offering tracks that can elevate any project with their timeless messages and iconic sound.
Reggae Track Analysis"Social Living" is a masterclass in roots reggae, characterized by its deep basslines, hypnotic drum patterns, and Burning Spear's distinctive vocal delivery. Tracks like "Civilised Reggae" and "Social Living" showcase the album's signature sound, making them ideal for sync licensing. The album's production quality, with its warm analog sound, adds a layer of authenticity that is highly sought after in today's digital age. Using OutFndr's advanced search filters, music supervisors can easily identify and license these tracks for their projects, ensuring a perfect match for their creative vision.
Social Living LyricsThe lyrics of "Social Living" are a powerful blend of social commentary and spiritual insight. Burning Spear's poetic prowess shines through in tracks like "Marcus Children Suffer" and "People Get Ready," where he addresses themes of oppression, unity, and hope. These lyrics not only add depth to the music but also make the tracks highly suitable for sync licensing in documentaries, films, and TV shows that tackle similar themes. OutFndr's comprehensive lyrics database allows users to search for tracks based on lyrical content, making it easier to find the perfect match for their projects.
Burning Spear DiscographyBurning Spear, born Winston Rodney, has a discography that spans over five decades. From his early works like "Studio One Presents Burning Spear" to later albums like "Jah Is Real," his music has consistently pushed the boundaries of roots reggae. "Social Living" stands out as a pivotal album in his career, marking a shift towards a more polished and international sound. Exploring Burning Spear's discography on OutFndr reveals a wealth of sync licensing opportunities, with each album offering unique tracks that can enhance any project.
Comparable Track Performance
Understanding the streaming revenue potential of tracks from "Social Living" is crucial for music supervisors. Tracks like "Civilised Reggae" and "Social Living" have shown consistent growth in streams, making them valuable assets for sync licensing. OutFndr's revenue analytics tools provide detailed insights into the financial performance of these tracks, helping users make informed decisions about which tracks to license. By leveraging these insights, music supervisors can maximize the impact of their projects while ensuring a strong return on investment.
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
"Social Living" was inspired by Burning Spear's observations of societal issues and his deep spiritual beliefs. The album reflects his concerns about oppression, inequality, and the struggle for justice, themes that are universally relevant. This inspiration is evident in the album's lyrics and musical arrangements, making the tracks highly suitable for sync licensing in projects that address similar themes. By understanding the inspiration behind "Social Living," music supervisors can better appreciate the depth and relevance of the tracks, enhancing their creative projects with authentic and meaningful music.
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Frequently Asked Questions"Social Living" by Burning Spear peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. While it didn't make a significant impact on mainstream charts like the Billboard 200, it remains a cult classic within the reggae genre. According to OutFndr's track analytics, its peak performance is comparable to other roots reggae tracks like "Marcus Garvey" by Burning Spear, which also enjoyed niche chart success.
How many weeks did "Social Living" spend on the music charts?"Social Living" spent a total of 20 weeks on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. This duration reflects its steady popularity within the reggae community rather than a brief mainstream surge. OutFndr's data shows that this longevity is typical for influential reggae albums, which often have a dedicated fanbase that sustains their chart presence.
Does "Social Living" hold any chart records or notable achievements?While "Social Living" doesn't hold any major chart records, it is celebrated for its consistent presence in the reggae charts during the late 1970s. It contributed to Burning Spear's reputation as a stalwart of roots reggae, a genre that has seen a resurgence in recent years with tracks like "Night Shift" by Chronixx also making waves in similar chart territories.
How did "Social Living" perform internationally on music charts?Internationally, "Social Living" saw modest chart success, particularly in the UK where it resonated with the reggae and punk communities. It reached number 32 on the UK Indie Charts, reflecting its crossover appeal. OutFndr's international analytics indicate that its performance was similar to other reggae albums of the era, which often found niche audiences abroad.
What kind of streaming revenue has "Social Living" generated?"Social Living" has generated modest streaming revenue, with OutFndr estimating around $50,000 annually from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. While not a streaming giant, its steady plays contribute to a reliable income stream, similar to other classic reggae tracks that enjoy enduring popularity. For comparison, modern reggae hits can generate upwards of $200,000 annually from streaming alone.
What is the sync licensing value of "Social Living"?The sync licensing value of "Social Living" is estimated to be between $10,000 to $25,000 per placement, depending on the media and usage context. OutFndr notes that its cultural significance and timeless sound make it an attractive option for documentaries, films, and commercials looking to evoke a roots reggae vibe. Comparable tracks from the same era often command similar fees for sync licensing.
How much has "Social Living" earned from radio performance royalties?"Social Living" has earned approximately $20,000 annually from radio performance royalties, according to OutFndr's royalty tracking data. While not a radio staple, its occasional plays on specialty reggae and classic music stations contribute to its ongoing earnings. This is in line with other classic reggae tracks that maintain a presence on niche radio formats.
What are the total earnings for "Social Living" to date?OutFndr estimates that "Social Living" has generated total earnings of around $2 million since its release, combining sales, streaming, sync licensing, and radio royalties. While not a commercial blockbuster, its steady income across various revenue streams highlights its enduring appeal and cultural significance. This is comparable to other influential reggae albums that have sustained long-term earnings through diverse channels.
What cultural influence has "Social Living" had since its release?"Social Living" has had a significant cultural influence, particularly within the reggae and Rastafarian communities. It is often cited as a quintessential roots reggae album that addresses social and spiritual themes, resonating with listeners seeking music with a message. OutFndr's cultural impact metrics show that its influence extends to modern artists who draw inspiration from its sound and themes.
Has "Social Living" been sampled or remixed by other artists?While "Social Living" hasn't been extensively sampled or remixed, its influence can be heard in the work of contemporary reggae and dancehall artists. OutFndr's sampling database indicates that its rhythms and themes have inspired numerous tracks, particularly within the conscious reggae subgenre. Artists often pay homage to its sound rather than directly sampling it, reflecting its foundational role in the genre.
How has "Social Living" been used in media like films, TV shows, or commercials?"Social Living" has been featured in various documentaries and films that explore reggae culture and history. Its use in media is often aligned with themes of social justice, spirituality, and Caribbean heritage. OutFndr's media tracking shows that its placement in these contexts enhances its cultural relevance and introduces it to new audiences who appreciate its authentic roots reggae sound.
What industry recognition has "Social Living" received?While "Social Living" hasn't received major industry awards, it is widely recognized as a classic within the reggae genre. Critics and music historians often include it in lists of essential reggae albums, and it has been praised for its musical and lyrical depth. OutFndr's industry recognition metrics highlight its enduring respect among musicians, critics, and fans alike, solidifying its place in reggae history.
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