JAMAICA SKA
Dekker Desmond Lyrics

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Ska ska ska, Jamaica ska.

Not many people can cha cha cha.
Not everybody can do the twist.
But everybody can do the ska,
It's the dance you can't resist.

Ska ska ska, Jamaica ska.

Now everybody can do the ska,
It's new dance that goes like this...

Now bow your head,
Swing your arms,

Shake your hips,
Now do a dip.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Desmond Dekker’s “Jamaica Ska” are a celebration of the ska dance and its accessibility. The ska dance is portrayed as an easier alternative to the other popular dances of the time such as the cha-cha-cha and the twist. The chorus repeatedly mentions “ska ska ska, Jamaica ska” which serves to emphasize the importance of ska and its connection to Jamaica. The ska dance is then broken down into simple steps that are accessible to everyone, further highlighting the inclusive nature of the dance.

The song also serves as a celebration of Jamaican culture and identity. The prominence of the word “Jamaica” in the chorus, along with the use of phrases such as “irie” and “ya man” throughout the song, highlight the pride that Jamaicans have for their culture. The upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation of the song further symbolize Jamaica’s vibrant and energetic attitude.

Line by Line Meaning

Ska ska ska, Jamaica ska.
Introducing the Jamaica ska dance.

Not many people can cha cha cha.
Acknowledging that not everyone can do the cha cha cha dance.

Not everybody can do the twist.
Noting that the twist dance isn't for everyone.

But everybody can do the ska,
Explaining that the Jamaica ska is a dance that anyone can do.

It's the dance you can't resist.
Emphasizing how infectious the Jamaica ska dance is.

Ska ska ska, Jamaica ska.
Repeating the introduction to reinforce the message.

Now everybody can do the ska,
Reiterating that the Jamaica ska is a dance that's accessible to everyone.

It's new dance that goes like this...
Describing the Jamaica ska as a new and exciting dance.

Now bow your head,
Instructing dancers to start the Jamaica ska dance by bowing their heads.

Swing your arms,
Continuing to give dance instructions, this time about swinging arms.

Shake your hips,
Describing one of the key moves of the Jamaica ska dance - shaking your hips.