Old pirates, yes, they rob I
Sold I to the merchant ships
Minutes after they took I
From the bottomless pit
But my hand was made strong
By the hand of the Almighty
We forward in this generation
Triumphantly
Won’t you help to sing
These songs of freedom?
‘Cause all I ever have
Redemption songs
Redemption songs
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery
None but ourselves can free our minds
Have no fear for atomic energy
‘Cause none of them can stop the time
How long shall they kill our prophets
While we stand aside and look? Ooh!
Some say it’s just a part of it
We’ve got to fulfill the book
Won’t you help to sing
These songs of freedom?
‘Cause all I ever have
Redemption songs
Redemption songs
Redemption songs
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery
None but ourselves can free our minds
Whoa! Have no fear for atomic energy
‘Cause none of them-ah can-ah stop-ah the time
How long shall they kill our prophets
While we stand aside and look?
Yes, some say it’s just a part of it
We’ve got to fulfill the book
Won’t you help to sing
These songs of freedom?
‘Cause all I ever have
Redemption songs
All I ever have
Redemption songs
These songs of freedom
Songs of freedom
Understanding ‘Redemption Song’
Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” stands as one of the most profound anthems of hope and liberation. The lyrics reflect a journey from oppression to empowerment, referencing the historical pain of slavery and the enduring strength found in faith and unity. Marley urges listeners to “emancipate yourselves from mental slavery,” emphasizing personal and collective freedom. The song’s acoustic simplicity allows its message to shine, inviting all to join in singing “songs of freedom.” Through questions about justice and calls for spiritual awakening, Marley transforms personal and societal struggles into a universal plea for redemption and resilience.
Song Credits
- Songwriter: Bob Marley
- Release Year: 1980
- Label: Island Records