He was nominated best vocalist five times in his own country, an indication of the love Jamaicans have for his voice and music. There are many reasons as to why he commands the respect of his countrymen, one is his ability to perform both roots Reggae material and love songs with equal ability and conviction. This dual persona, both as roots 'preacher' and love 'crooner', was one which out of financial necessity many other performers were required to adopt. Dennis Brown, then Johnny's biggest rival, is a fine example in this regard.
Masterful dub remixes of Johnny Clarke's songs by KING TUBBY contribute no end to the beauty of any mid '70s single release by Clarke. Listen to 'Move Out Of Babylon Rastaman' or the later 'Cold I Up' and to the accompanying b-side dub versions, and you will realize why Johnny Clarke encapsulates so well, '70s Roots Reggae. Few other artists have ever achieved such domination, let alone with the consummate ease and style that Johnny Clarke, the 'studio idler' did.
If you are looking to understand and absorb the world of Reggae, in particular the 'Golden Era' of the mid '70s, Clarke's music is an ideal vehicle within which to do so. When Bob Marley was turning himself into the first International Jamaican superstar, Big Youth, Inner Circle and Johnny Clarke ruled the roost back home. They were the acts popular with Jamaicans, in Jamaica.
While he failed to maintain the success of the '70s, Clarke went on to become one of the highlights of the dancehall era, re-establishing his reputation as he did so. His style had always been well suited to this new genre, one that coincided with the beginning of the new decade.
He has continued to remain true to his own roots, singing largely of 'cultural' matters and retaining his Rastafarian faith. Touring to this day, he spends much of his time in the U.K., and long may we benefit from his beautiful voice.
None Shall Escape the Judgement
Johnny Clarke Lyrics
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Gangster whitewalls tv antenna in the back
You may not have a car at all
But just remember brothers and sisters
You can still stand tall
Just be thankful for what you've got
Though you may not drive a great big Cadillac
Diamonds in the back, sunroof top, digging the scene
With a gangster lean gangster whitewalls
TV antenna in the back
You may not have a car at all
But just remember brothers and sisters
You can still stand tall
Just be thankful for what you've got
Diamonds in the back, sunroof top, digging the scene
With a gangster lean ooh ooh ooh
Though you may not drive a great big Cadillac
Gangster whitewalls tv antenna in the back
You may not have a car at all
But just remember brothers and sisters
You can still stand tall
Just be thankful for what you've got
Diamonds in the back, sunroof top, digging the scene
With a gangster lean
With a gangster lean
With a gangster lean
The song "None Shall Escape the Judgement" by Johnny Clarke is an uplifting reminder to be thankful for what you have and to stand tall in the face of adversity regardless of what you have or don't have. The lyrics talk about how one's possessions should not define or limit them, even if they may not have a luxurious car with diamonds and a sunroof. The line "Just be thankful for what you've got" serves as a message to appreciate the blessings one has, regardless of how small or seemingly insignificant they may be.
The mention of a "gangster lean" and a TV antenna in the back of a car may seem like an insignificant detail, but it serves as a reminder that even those who may be seen as outcasts or different from the mainstream can still hold their heads high and should be appreciated for who they are. The song encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness and not be held back by societal norms or material possessions.
Overall, "None Shall Escape the Judgement" is a powerful message of self-worth and gratitude that is applicable to all walks of life. It reminds us that no matter what we may or may not have, we can still stand tall with pride and dignity, and that is something to be immensely thankful for.
Line by Line Meaning
Though you may not drive a great big Cadillac
Even if you do not possess materialistic things like a Cadillac car
Gangster whitewalls tv antenna in the back
Or features like gangster whitewalls and TV antennas in the car
You may not have a car at all
Or you may not have a car at all
But just remember brothers and sisters
But it's important to remember
You can still stand tall
That you can still have self-respect and confidence
Just be thankful for what you've got
By being grateful for what you already have
Diamonds in the back, sunroof top, digging the scene
Even if you have luxurious items like diamonds and sun-roof tops
With a gangster lean gangster whitewalls
Or if you have a gangster lean and whitewalls on your car
TV antenna in the back
Or a TV antenna in your car
With a gangster lean ooh ooh ooh
Even if you have a gangster style or persona
With a gangster lean
With a gangster style or persona
With a gangster lean
With a gangster style or persona
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, BMG Rights Management
Written by: WILLIAM DEVAUGHN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind