Lucky Dube Songs: A Tribute to the King of Reggae
Introduction
If you are a fan of reggae music, you have probably heard of Lucky Dube, the legendary South African singer and songwriter who was known as the king of reggae. Lucky Dube was one of the most influential and successful reggae artists in the world, with a career that spanned over 25 years and produced more than 20 albums. He was also a voice of social justice, human rights, and anti-apartheid activism, using his music to spread his message of peace, love, and unity.
In this article, we will pay tribute to Lucky Dube by exploring his life, his music, and his legacy. We will also list the top 20 best reggae songs of Lucky Dube that you should listen to if you want to experience his amazing talent and spirit. Let's get started!
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The History and Influence of Lucky Dube Songs
How did he start his musical career?
Lucky Dube was born on August 3, 1964, in Ermelo, a small town in the eastern part of South Africa. He was named Lucky because his mother considered his birth fortunate after having lost her first three children. He grew up in poverty and hardship, living with his grandmother while his mother worked as a domestic worker in Johannesburg. He was exposed to music at an early age, singing in the school choir and joining a band called The Skyway Band when he was 18.
He recorded his first album in 1982, titled Lengane Ngeyethu, which was sung in Zulu and featured a style of music called mbaqanga, a fusion of traditional African rhythms and western pop influences. He continued to record mbaqanga albums for the next five years, gaining popularity and recognition in South Africa.
How did he switch from mbaqanga to reggae?
Lucky Dube's musical direction changed in 1984, when he discovered reggae music through listening to artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Jimmy Cliff. He was inspired by the political and spiritual messages of reggae, as well as its roots in African culture. He decided to switch from mbaqanga to reggae, despite the risk of losing his fan base and facing criticism from the music industry.
He released his first reggae album in 1985, titled Rastas Never Die, which was banned by the apartheid government for its anti-oppression lyrics. He followed it with Think About the Children in 1987, which became a huge hit and established him as a reggae star in South Africa and beyond. He also formed a new band called Slaves, which consisted of some of the best musicians in the country.
How did he spread his message of peace, love, and justice?
Lucky Dube's songs Lucky Dube's songs were not only catchy and uplifting, but also powerful and meaningful. He used his music to address the issues that affected his people and his country, such as apartheid, racism, poverty, violence, corruption, and oppression. He also sang about universal themes such as love, faith, hope, freedom, and unity. He was not afraid to speak his mind and challenge the status quo, even if it meant facing censorship, harassment, or threats.
Lucky Dube's songs also had a global appeal and impact. He was one of the first African artists to break into the international market, touring extensively in Europe, America, Asia, and Australia. He performed at major festivals and events, such as the 1991 Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica, the 1993 Reggae on the River in California, the 1995 Africa Unite concert in Ethiopia, and the 1997 Tribute to Nelson Mandela concert in London. He collaborated with other renowned artists, such as Sting, Sinead O'Connor, Peter Gabriel, and Youssou N'Dour. He won numerous awards and accolades, such as the 1996 World Music Award for Best Selling African Recording Artist, the 1997 Kora Award for Best African Artist of the Decade, and the 2001 South African Music Award for Best Reggae Album.
How did he inspire other reggae artists in Africa and beyond?
Lucky Dube was not only a great musician, but also a great mentor and role model. He inspired and supported other reggae artists in Africa and beyond, sharing his knowledge, experience, and resources with them. He helped to create a platform for African reggae music to be heard and appreciated worldwide. He also paved the way for other genres of African music to gain recognition and respect.
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Some of the artists who were influenced by Lucky Dube include Alpha Blondy from Ivory Coast, Majek Fashek from Nigeria, Tiken Jah Fakoly from Mali, Culture Brown from Jamaica, Gentleman from Germany, and Matisyahu from America. They all acknowledged Lucky Dube as their inspiration and paid tribute to him after his tragic death in 2007.
The Top 20 Best Reggae Songs of Lucky Dube
Lucky Dube recorded over 20 albums and hundreds of songs in his career. It is hard to choose the best ones among them, but here are some of his most popular and memorable reggae songs that you should listen to:
Prisoner
This song was released in 1989 as the title track of his fifth reggae album. It is a song about the oppression and injustice that many people face in their lives. It compares the situation of a prisoner in jail to that of a poor person in society. It also expresses the hope that one day things will change for the better.
The chorus goes like this:
I'm a prisoner
Don't feel sorry for me
I'm a prisoner
But soon I'm gonna be free
Remember Me
This song was released in 1989 as well. It is a song about the pain and sorrow of losing a loved one. It is dedicated to Lucky Dube's mother, who passed away when he was young. It also reflects on the legacy that he wants to leave behind for his children and fans.
The chorus goes like this:
Remember me
In whatever you do
I love you
Daddy loves you too
Slave
This song was released in 1990 as the title track of his sixth reggae album. It is a song about the history and effects of slavery and colonialism on Africa and its people. It denounces the exploitation and oppression that Africans have endured for centuries. It also calls for liberation and empowerment of the African continent and its people.
The chorus goes like this:
Slave, slave
We were taken away from our family
Slave, slave
We were sold into slavery
I've Got You Babe
This song was released in 1990 as well. It is a cover version of the famous song by Sonny and Cher, but with a reggae twist. It is a song about the love and devotion that a couple shares. It also celebrates the joy and happiness that love brings to life.
The chorus goes like this:
I've got you babe
I've got you to hold my hand
I've got you babe
I've got you to understand
Respect
This song was released in 1991 as the title track of his seventh reggae album. It is a song about the importance and value of respect in human relationships. It urges people to respect themselves, respect others, and respect nature. It also warns against the consequences of disrespect, such as violence, hatred, and war.
The chorus goes like this:
Respect yourself
Respect me
Respect everybody
And everybody will respect you
House of Exile
This song was released in 1991 as well. It is a song about the plight and struggle of political exiles and refugees who have to flee their homes and countries due to oppression and persecution. It also expresses the longing and hope for freedom and justice that they have.
The chorus goes like this:
Freedom fighter standing on a mountain
In a foreign country
Trying to send a message
To his people, back in the ghetto
It's Not Easy
This song was released in 1992 as the title track of his eighth reggae album. It is a song about the challenges and difficulties of life, especially for those who are poor and marginalized. It also acknowledges the strength and resilience that people have to overcome their problems and achieve their dreams.
The chorus goes like this:
It's not easy to be a man
Oh no, it's not easy
It's not easy to be a man
Oh no, it's not easy
Different Colours/One People
This song was released in 1992 as well. It is a song about the diversity and unity of humanity, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, or religion. It celebrates the beauty and richness of different colours and cultures, while also emphasizing the common bond and destiny that all people share. It also calls for harmony and cooperation among all people, instead of discrimination and conflict.
The chorus goes like this:
Different colours, one people
Different colours, one people
Different colours, one people
Different colours, one people
The Way It Is
This song was released in 1999 as the title track of his twelfth reggae album. It is a song about the reality and injustice of the world, especially for those who are oppressed and exploited. It exposes the hypocrisy and corruption of the powerful and wealthy, who manipulate and control the masses. It also challenges the people to rise up and fight for their rights and dignity.
The chorus goes like this:
That's the way it is
That's the way it is
That's the way it is
That's the way it is
Reggae Strong
This song was released in 1999 as well. It is a song about the power and influence of reggae music, not only as a form of entertainment, but also as a force for social change and awareness. It praises the pioneers and legends of reggae, who used their music to spread their message of peace, love, and justice. It also affirms the pride and identity of reggae fans and artists, who keep the reggae spirit alive.
The chorus goes like this:
Reggae strong
Nobody can stop reggae
Reggae strong
Nobody can stop reggae
Back to My Roots
This song was released in 1989 as part of his fifth reggae album. It is a song about the importance and value of one's roots, culture, and heritage. It expresses the desire and need to reconnect with one's origins and ancestors, especially after being exposed to foreign influences and pressures. It also celebrates the beauty and wisdom of African traditions and customs.
The chorus goes like this:
I went back to my roots yeah yeah
I went back to my roots yeah yeah
I went back to my roots yeah yeah
I went back to my roots yeah yeah
Victims
This song was released in 1993 as the title track of his ninth reggae album. It is a song about the suffering and oppression of the victims of violence, war, and injustice around the world. It empathizes with their pain and grief, and condemns the perpetrators and instigators of their misery. It also calls for solidarity and action to end the cycle of violence and injustice.
The chorus goes like this:
Didn't they know that the world was round
Didn't they know that people would be free
Didn't they hear the sound of Martin Luther King
Or didn't they know that he had a dream
Together As One
This song was released in 1994 as part of his tenth reggae album. It is a song about the vision and hope of a united and harmonious world, where people of different races, religions, and backgrounds live together as one. It appeals to the common humanity and dignity of all people, and urges them to overcome their differences and prejudices. It also invites them to join in a celebration of life and love.
The chorus goes like this:
Together as one
We can make it work
Together as one
We can have some fun
The Hand That Giveth
This song was released in 1994 as well. It is a song about the hypocrisy and greed of some people who pretend to be charitable and generous, but are actually selfish and exploitative. It warns them that they will face the wrath of God and the judgment of history for their actions. It also reminds them that the true meaning of giving is not to expect anything in return, but to share with love and compassion.
The chorus goes like this:
The hand that giveth
Can also take it away
The hand that giveth
Can also make you pay
Release Me
This song was released in 1995 as part of his eleventh reggae album. It is a song about the frustration and anger of being trapped and controlled by someone or something. It expresses the desire and need to break free from the chains and cages that hold one back. It also asserts the right and power to choose one's own destiny and happiness.
The chorus goes like this:
Release me
Let me be
Release me
Set me free
Truth in the World
This song was released in 1997 as part of his thirteenth reggae album. It is a song about the search and quest for truth in a world full of lies and deception. It questions the validity and reliability of the sources and authorities that claim to have the truth. It also encourages the people to seek and find the truth for themselves, and to live by it.
The chorus goes like this:
Truth in the world
Where can we find it
Truth in the world
Who can we trust
Born to Suffer
This song was released in 1998 as part of his fourteenth reggae album. It is a song about the hardship and misery that many people face in their lives, especially those who are born into poverty, war, or oppression. It sympathizes with their plight and suffering, and wonders why they have to endure such conditions. It also hopes for a better future for them, where they can enjoy life and happiness.
The chorus goes like this:
Born to suffer
Born to suffer
Born to suffer
Born to suffer
Feel Irie
This song was released in 1999 as part of his fifteenth reggae album. It is a song about the feeling and attitude of being irie, which means being happy, peaceful, and positive. It celebrates the simple pleasures and joys of life, such as music, nature, and love. It also invites the people to join in the irie vibe and mood, and to forget their worries and troubles.
The chorus goes like this:
Feel irie
Feel irie
Feel irie
Feel irie
God Bless the Women
This song was released in 2001 as part of his sixteenth reggae album. It is a song about the appreciation and gratitude for women, who play various roles and responsibilities in society and family. It acknowledges the sacrifices and contributions that women make for their children, partners, and communities. It also praises their beauty, strength, and wisdom.
The chorus goes like this:
God bless the women
God bless the women
God bless the women
God bless the women
Conclusion
Lucky Dube was a remarkable and influential reggae artist who left a lasting legacy in the world of music and beyond. His songs were not only entertaining and uplifting, but also meaningful and inspiring. He used his music to express his views and values, and to advocate for social justice and human rights. He also inspired and supported other artists and fans, who admired his talent and spirit.
Lucky Dube was tragically killed on October 18, 2007, in a carjacking incident in Johannesburg. He was 43 years old. His death shocked and saddened millions of people around the world, who mourned the loss of a great musician and a great man. His music lives on, however, in the hearts and minds of his loyal followers and new listeners alike.
If you want to learn more about Lucky Dube and his music, you can visit his official website, [Lucky Dube], or follow his Facebook page, [Lucky Dube Music]. You can also listen to his songs on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, or other streaming platforms.
We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about Lucky Dube and his songs. If you did, please share it with your friends and family, and leave us a comment below. Thank you for reading!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Lucky Dube and his songs:
Q: How many albums did Lucky Dube release?
A: Lucky Dube released 22 albums in total, including 15 reggae albums, 6 mbaqanga albums, and 1 gospel album.
Q: What was Lucky Dube's real name?
A: Lucky Dube's real name was Lucky Philip Dube. He was also known by his nickname "Lucks".
Q: What was Lucky Dube's religion?
A: Lucky Dube was a Christian. He converted to Christianity in 1992, after being influenced by his friend Ray Phiri, a fellow musician. He also recorded a gospel album in 1996, titled Soul Taker.
Q: What was Lucky Dube's net worth?
A: According to some sources, Lucky Dube's net worth was estimated to be around $5 million at the time of his death. He earned most of his income from his music sales, tours, and endorsements.
Q: Who are Lucky Dube's children?
A: Lucky Dube had seven children from different relationships. They are Thokozani Dube, Bongi Dube, Nkulee Dube, Laura Dube, Siyanda Dube, Philani Dube, and Melokuhle Dube. Some of them are also musicians who have followed their father's footsteps. 44f88ac181
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