About the song
Bob Marley, the legendary reggae artist known for his profound lyrics and revolutionary spirit, delivered a powerful message with his song “War”. Released on May 1, 1976, “War” is a standout track from Marley’s influential album “Rastaman Vibration”. This song holds a significant place not only in Marley’s discography but also in the broader context of protest music.
“War” is deeply rooted in Marley’s Rastafarian beliefs and his commitment to social justice. The song’s lyrics are adapted from a speech by Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I, which addresses issues of racial inequality and oppression. Marley’s version of the speech transforms into a passionate anthem against injustice and discrimination, making “War” a compelling call for unity and resistance. The song’s refrain, “Until the philosophy which hold one race superior and another, inferior is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned, everywhere is war,” encapsulates its core message against racial and political oppression.
The meaning of “War” is both powerful and timeless. It speaks to the enduring struggle against systemic racism and inequality, reflecting Marley’s broader political and social concerns. By incorporating Haile Selassie I’s speech, Marley connects the song to a historical struggle for justice and freedom, blending his personal activism with a global perspective. The track’s urgent rhythm and emotive delivery underscore the sense of urgency in addressing these critical issues.
In terms of its social impact, “War” has been a significant anthem in the fight against racial injustice. It resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, amplifying Marley’s role as not just a musician but a vocal advocate for social change. The song has been embraced by various movements and remains a relevant and influential piece in discussions about equality and human rights. Its message continues to inspire activists and listeners who are engaged in the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.
“War” also illustrates Marley’s ability to use his platform to address pressing societal issues. The track’s inclusion on the album “Rastaman Vibration”, which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, helped bring Marley’s message to a global audience. The album, and particularly “War”, reinforced Marley’s position as a leading voice in reggae music and a prominent figure in the discourse on social justice.
In summary, Bob Marley’s “War” is a profound and enduring piece of music that reflects the artist’s commitment to social justice and his ability to use music as a vehicle for change. Featured on the album “Rastaman Vibration”, the song’s powerful lyrics and compelling message continue to resonate with listeners, affirming its place as a significant anthem in the fight against racial and political oppression.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Until the philosophy which hold one race
Superior and another Inferior
Is finally
And permanently
Discredited
And abandoned
Everywhere is war
Me say war[Verse 2]
That until there are no longer
First-class and second-class citizens of any nation
Until the colour of a man’s skin
Is of no more significance than the colour of his eyes
Me say war[Verse 3]
That until the basic human rights
Are equally guaranteed to all
Without regard to race
Dis a war[Verse 4]
That until that day
The dream of lasting peace
World citizenship
Rule of international morality
Will remain in but a fleeting illusion to be pursued
But never attained
Now everywhere is war
War[Verse 5]
And until the ignoble and unhappy regime
That hold our brothers in Angola
In Mozambique
South Africa
Sub-human bondage
Have been toppled
Utterly destroyed
Well, everywhere is war
Me say war[Chorus]
War in the east
War in the west
War up north
War down south[Verse 6]
War, war
Rumors of war
And until that day
The African continent
Will not know peace
We Africans will fight, we find it necessary
And we know we shall win
As we are confident
In the victory
Of good over evil[Outro]
Good over evil, yeah!
Good over evil
Good over evil, yeah!
Good over evil
Good over evil, yeah!