Today Steel Pulse celebrates what would have been the 60th birthday of the legendary Lucky Dube. We honor a musical icon whose voice and message have transcended time and borders. Lucky Dube was not just a singer; he was a storyteller, an advocate for justice, and a beacon of hope for many. His music taught us about love, respect, and the power of unity. Steel Pulse is deeply inspired by Lucky Dube’s legacy and commitment - we believe that now more than ever, our fractured world needs unity - a message of respect.
One of Lucky Dube’s most profound songs, ‘Respect,’ encapsulates the essence of this message. In this powerful anthem, Lucky Dube challenges us to look beyond superficial symbols of power and status. Like Dube we reject the notion of respect based on fear or material wealth, urging us instead to recognize the intrinsic value of every individual. The lyrics, ‘When you flash that badge / You want everyone to shiver,’ criticize those who seek respect through intimidation, reminding us that true respect must be earned through genuine actions and character.
Through the lines, ‘I got no time to worship humankind / I only worship the Almighty,’ Dube emphasizes the importance of divine respect over human worship. He advocates for universal love and forgiveness, teaching us to ‘give love to those who give me love / Love to those who give me war.’ This powerful message of loving unconditionally, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to his deep spiritual and moral convictions.
‘Respect me for who I am and not what I am’ is a clarion call for equality and personal dignity. In a world often obsessed with status and materialism, Dube’s words remind us to see beyond external appearances and honor the inherent worth of every person. His critique of materialism, ‘Nobody even cares about your dollars / Nobody even cares about your bling-bling,’ further underscores his belief that respect should be based on character, not wealth.
As we reflect on the profound impact of ‘Respect,’ we recognize Lucky Dube’s unparalleled ability to convey deep truths through his music. His songs continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, reminding us of the values that truly matter.
Happy Birthday, Lucky Dube! Your spirit lives on through your timeless music and the countless lives you’ve touched. Thank you for showing us the true meaning of respect and love. May we all strive to live by the principles you so passionately championed.
RESPECT by Lucky Dube - performed by STEEL PULSE
Lead & Backing vocals: David Hinds Drums: Wayne”Csharp” Clarke Bass: Amlak Tafari Keyboards: Selwyn”Bumbo”Brown Lead Guitar: Jack Djehim Trombone: Wes Etienne Saxophone: Wes Perry Female BVs: Celia Carter & Sophie Parrot Engineers: Miguel Seco, David Rodap Mixed by: Errol Brown
RESPECT lyrics:
When you flash that badge You want everyone to shiver When you flash that badge You want everyone to worship you I got no time to worship humankind I only worship the Almighty (the Almighty) Through His prophets I have learned To give respect to everything He created I give love to those who give me love Love to those who give me war I love those who hate me I bless even those who curse me, yeah I give love (love) to those who love me Give love (love) to those who give me war I love (love) those who hate me I bless (bless) even those who curse me, yeah C'mon show me respect I got to see some respect Show me, show me, show me respect I got to, got to see some respect Show me, show me, show me respect You could be the president (president) You could be his deputy (deputy) You don't even have to know my political affiliation You don't even have to know my religious affiliation Respect me for who I am and not what I am Nobody even cares about your dollars Nobody even cares about your bling-bling (your bling-bling) Give love (love) to those who give you love Love (love) to those who give you war Give love (love) to those who hate you Bless (bless) even those who curse you Give love to those who love you Love to those who give you war Love to those who hate you Bless even those who curse you, yeah Give me respect I wanna see some respect Gimme, gimme, gimme, respect Show me, show me, show me, show me respect Gimme, gimme, gimme... (respect) Give me respect I wanna see some respect Gimme, gimme, gimme respect Show me, show me, show me, show me respect I wanna see some respect Gimme, gimme, gimme respect Show me, show me, show me, show me respect
PAINTING of Lucky Dube by David "Dread" Hinds