In the beginning stages of reggae music as it emerged in the 1960s, many musicians focused their music on the brutalities of slavery. One of the first reggae hits came from Toots and the Maytals with "54-46 Thats My Number," a song describing a man unjustly imprisoned, robbed of his humanity and reduced to just a number. The song emphasizes a man's ability to grow and flourish amidst the hardships of injustice. The song, and many other reggae songs, helped the people of Jamaica to stay strong through the misery of slavery.
Toots and the Maytals "54-46 That's My Number" Single. Beverly's. 1968.
The Melodians "Rivers of Babylon" The Harder They Come Soundtrack. 1970.
This song represents the struggle that many Africans felt during the times of slavery. During the time of colonialism, many Africans were brought to Jamaica as slaves. Zion refers to their homeland in Africa whereas Babylon is Jamaica, the transition ground as they try to make their way to the American South.
Bob Marley & The Wailers "Slave Driver" Catch a Fire. Tuff Gong, 1973.
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