Root, natty, roots
Dread, kinky, dread
I and I are the roots
Some are leaf (shoo-be-doo)
Some are branches (shoo-be-doo)
I and I are the roots
Some are dry wood (shoo-be-doo)
For the fire (shoo-be-doo)
Whyo, look at that
They need a dry wood (shoo-be-doo)
To cook their raw food (shoo-be-doo)
Whyo, look at that
Got to survive in this man-mania downpression
Got to survive in iration
Mi say, root, natty, root
Dread, kinky, dread
I and I are the roots
Some are wolf (shoo-be-doo)
In sheep clothing (shoo-be-doo)
Whyo, look at that
Many are called (shoo-be-doo)
A few are chosen (shoo-be-doo)
Whyo, look at that
Nothing they can do (shoo-be-doo)
To separate I and I (shoo-be-doo)
From the love of our Father
You see, blood is thicker than water
Whyo, look at that
Got to survive in the ghetto
Got to survive, people don’t fret, no
We got a root, natty, root
Dread, kinky, dread
I and I are the roots
Root natty
Dread kinky
I and I are the roots
Exploring the Message of “Roots” by Bob Marley
In “Roots,” Bob Marley delivers a powerful anthem centered on identity, resilience, and spiritual heritage. The repeated phrases “root, natty, root” and “I and I are the roots” reinforce a deep connection to Rastafarian beliefs, suggesting that true strength and authenticity come from embracing one’s origins. Marley contrasts the roots with leaves, branches, and dry wood, symbolizing those who are less grounded or easily consumed by society’s pressures. The lines about surviving “man-mania downpression” and the ghetto reflect the ongoing struggle against oppression, while the reference to wolves in sheep’s clothing warns of deceit within the community. Ultimately, Marley asserts that nothing can break the bond between himself and his spiritual heritage, emphasizing unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Song Credits
- Artist: Bob Marley
- Songwriter: Bob Marley
- Release Year: 1976
- Label: Tuff Gong / Island Records