Woy-a, Natty Congo:
A Dreadlock Congo I!
Woy-a, Natty Congo:
A Blackman Redemption! Woy-yo, yo-oo-wo-oo!
A Blackman Redemption! Woy-yo, wo-oo-wo-oo!
No need – no need to get jumpy
No need and-a no need to get bumpy
And-a no need – and-a no need to get bumpy
No nee-nee-nee-nee-nee-nee-nee-need to get jumpy!
Youth and youth agree to:
Cool running; can you dig it?
Cool running; yeah, one more time! A-beg you:
Cool running; can you stop it?
Cool running:
Spread out, spread out
Spread out, spread out
Tell you about the Blackman Redemption; can you dig it? (Oh, yeah!)
A Blackman Redemption; can you stop it?
Oh, no! Oh, no! Oh, no!
Coming from the root of King David
Through to the line of Solomon
His Imperial Majesty is the Power of Authority:
Spread out, spread out
Spread out, spread out
Spread out, spread out
Spread, spread out
No need – no need – no need to get jumpy
And-a no need – and-a no need to walk away
Let me tell bout you:
Cool running, can you dig it?
Cool running: it’s one more time we want it
Cool running
Cool running
Spread out, spread out
Spread out, spread out
Spread out. Spread out, spread out
Spread out, spread out
It’s just-a Blackman Redemption
Can you dig it (wo-yeah!) Good, Lord! Good, Lord! Good, Lord!
Blackman Redemption, can you stop it? Oh, no! Oh, no!
Blackman redemption
The Message of Black Empowerment
“Blackman Redemption” by Bob Marley is a powerful anthem celebrating black identity, resilience, and spiritual heritage. The lyrics emphasize the importance of unity and calmness, urging listeners to avoid conflict and embrace “cool running.” Marley references the royal lineage of King David and Solomon, linking the song’s message to Rastafarian beliefs and the significance of Haile Selassie as a symbol of authority and redemption. The repeated call to “spread out” encourages collective action and the sharing of positive energy within the community. Ultimately, the song stands as a declaration of pride and a call for liberation, echoing Marley’s lifelong commitment to social justice and upliftment.
Song Credits
- Artist: Bob Marley
- Songwriters: Bob Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry
- Release Year: 1980
- Label: Tuff Gong