This Is Reggae Musick

Original Song: “Roots Rock Reggae”

Album: Rastaman Vibration

Label: Tuff Gong/Island

Year: 1976

Notes:

There is no greater introduction to a man’s legacy than his Art. The word “musick” (old english) finds its roots within the hebrew language as the word shîr ( שׁיר), which refers not only to the action of signing, but also tavelling. Most listeners and enthusiasts will metaphorically say that their favorite music makes them travel. Our ancestors knew well the principles of liturgy, and how the proper sounds will MOVE people. Music is the tool the Artist uses to bring a certain consciousness to a given physical and also spiritual space. This knowledge becomes the base and foundation to culture.

An interesting detail is that the song lyrics are credited to Vincent “Tata” Ford, who was also credited to have written No Woman No Cry, Crazy Bladheads and Positive Vibration. This occured at a time when Bob was in a dispute with his former publishing company, Caymen Music.

This a reggae music

Play I some music, this a reggae music
Roots rock reggae, this a reggae music

Hey Mister Music, sure sounds good to me
I can’t refuse it, what to be got to be
Feel like dancing, dance cause we are free
Feel like dancing, come dance with me

Play I some music, this a reggae music
Roots rock reggae, this a reggae music

Play I on the R&B, want all my people to see
We bubbling on the Top 100, just like a mighty dread

Play I some music, this a reggae music
Roots rock reggae, this a reggae music