Bob Marley most frequently mentioned historical figure in song lyrics — study
A recent study by the history-inspired metal band Sabaton has identified reggae icon Bob Marley as the historical figure most frequently referenced in song lyrics.
Prior to composing their new album, the band was curious as to which historical figures had influenced songwriters the most to date.
The study revealed how frequently historical figures’ full names have appeared in lyrics across unique songs via AZLyrics.
The full list features creatives who have shaped pop culture (eg John Lennon), leaders, revolutionaries and political figures (like Cleopatra), and philosophical, mythological, or infamous figures (eg Rasputin).
Bob Marley takes the lead with 927 lyric mentions — far more than any other figure analysed in the study. The Jamaican singer, songwriter and guitarist used his music to spread messages of unity and resistance, becoming a global symbol of freedom and the voice of Rastafarian culture. Among the songs he’s been mentioned in are Jay-Z’s Empire State of Mind and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Give It Away.
Second is the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, who has been mentioned in 737 songs. Plato shaped ideas about ethics, politics and knowledge that became the foundations of western philosophy and still influence modern society today. He is mentioned in Van Morrison’s I Forgot That Love Existed and The Magnificent Seven by The Clash.
In third place is infamous outlaws Bonnie and Clyde, who rose to notoriety during the Great Depression and whose crime spree and dramatic deaths turned them into a symbol for doomed romance. The duo is mentioned in 712 songs, including Taylor Swift’s Getaway Car and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ If You Have To Ask.
Current United States President Donald Trump makes a surprise appearance in fourth, with 656 lyric mentions. The president is a polarising figure who has had a major influence on American and global political discourse. Lyric features include Frank Ocean’s Lights and Mac Miller’s Donald Trump.
Rounding out the top five most sung about figures is American gangster Al Capone. The infamous mobster has been mentioned in 550 lyrics, including Stone Cold Crazy by Queen, Superstar by Madonna and Al Capone by Michael Jackson.
Also among the top 10 most sung about figures are John Lennon, Biggie Smalls and Muhammad Ali.
