From Hanover he moved to St. James where hie attended school and ultimately growing into a mild mannered young man. While in St. James Ginjah realized that „Music is mi life“, and in 1994 he moved to Central Village, Spanish Town where he had his first Studio-Session at the age of seventeen! This Studio was no others than the illustrious King Jammy´s, home to many giants in the music business. Although Ginjah was ready for the world, having now been exposed to critics of an acclaimed studio such as Jammy´s the world has not yet become aware of his musical talents, so he made the best of his time while in Central Village helping to organize a Young People Talent Search for his home community. He not only saw local talent but showcased his own which gave him valuable experience which he would use later on. In 1999 he cought the ear of Beres Hammond who instantly became convinced of the potential of this young man. He was immediatly invited by Beres Hammond to his Harmony House Label. In 2000 Beres label opened his door to Ginjah where he began his early recordings.
No sooner than 2001 he was on tour with Beres Hammond on his Caribbean Tour. That year Ginjah opened several shows streching across the major caribbean cities leaving behind a trail of satisfied patrons wanting for more. Ginjah went on touring with Beres throughout the world, places including Europe, Canada, USA & Japan. Over the period of 4 years, he has performed at allmost every major Reggae-Event across the world except Africa. At 2004 he performed at Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica immediately followed by Pop Icon Lionel Richie and gave a good account to himself to the surprise of everybody there.
Nuh Water Down
Ginjah Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Ginjah’s song "Nuh Water Down" is a powerful expression of cultural pride, resilience, and spiritual conviction in the face of societal challenges—particularly under the oppressive systems represented by "Babylon." The introduction sets the tone for the song, emphasizing the importance of written expression through music and lyrics. By asking for a pen and a book, Ginjah symbolizes the necessity of documentation and melody in disseminating messages that inspire social change and resistance. The suggestion that these words and melodies can "make Babylon shook" embodies the artist's hope that their music will have a profound impact on listeners and society as a whole.
In the chorus, Ginjah reinforces a steadfast commitment to Rastafarian principles, asserting that "Rasta nuh water down" signifies the unwavering nature of their beliefs and lifestyle. The reference to Haile Selassie, who is revered in Rastafarian tradition, underscores the notion of spiritual authority and leadership ("wears the triple crown"). By declaring that "Babylon frets when the trumpet sounds," the lyrics evoke a sense of impending justice or awareness that disrupts the status quo. "Nuh water down" can be interpreted as a metaphor for authenticity and integrity, rejecting diluted beliefs in favor of a strong, unyielding identity.
In the first verse, Ginjah discusses the journey through adversity, emphasizing a reliance on faith ("give jah praise") despite the challenges represented by society's moral decay ("sodom & go-marrow"). His critique extends to the modern world, calling out the compromises others make for material gain ("true dem hear visa a get Tek weh"). This assertion points to the idea that many lose their integrity and values in pursuit of social mobility, leading them to a spiritual dislocation ("self dem soul yah now end up pon a pole"). The reference to the Pope and Italy highlights the critique of organized religion when it strays from its foundational principles, prompting a reminder of the need for spiritual authenticity and moral accountability.
In the subsequent verses, Ginjah continues to emphasize productivity and peace amidst chaos, symbolized through the imagery of "planting peas" and "corn." He juxtaposes the peaceful efforts of the Rastafarians against the backdrop of societal conflict ("Babylon a war while the Rasta man farm"), reinforcing the message that true strength lies in community-building and nurturing future generations ("Rasta a procreate"). The declaration that "in this 21st century David would be Goliath still" speaks to the timeless struggle between the oppressed and the oppressor, suggesting that despite the progress and changing times, the fundamental fight against oppression persists. Thus, through the lens of Rastafarian culture, Ginjah's lyrics serve as a motivational anthem for resilience, strength, and a proud assertion of identity against societal pressures.
Line by Line Meaning
water down. (Intro)
The concept of dilution or loss of truth is introduced.
Pas me the pen hand me the book
Hand me the tools of expression so I can articulate thoughts and ideas.
write words & sing melodies
Compose meaningful lyrics and create soothing music that inspires.
make Babylon shook
To challenge and destabilize the oppressive systems of Babylon through powerful expression.
pas me the pen hand me the book
Reiterating the need for instruments of creativity to share wisdom.
sing melodies yea.. (chorus)
Continuing the call to spread joyful music that carries profound messages.
Rasta Nuh Water down,
Rasta culture and beliefs remain untainted and unwavering.
I for ever stand my ground,
I will always uphold my convictions and principles.
Haile Selassie wears the triple Crown,
Referencing the honors and authority of Haile Selassie, a symbol of Rastafarian faith.
Rasta nuh water down,
Reaffirming that the Rasta identity remains strong and undiluted.
Babylon Fret when the trumpet soun,
The oppressive systems become fearful when the truth is proclaimed.
Rasta nuh water down
Continuing to assert that Rastafarian beliefs are firm and true.
Rasta nuh water down, nooo,
An emphatic declaration of the unyielding nature of Rasta principles.
(Verse.1)
Beginning the first verse of the narrative.
Trodding The Hills Trodding The Valley,
Journeying through both high and low places, resilient in faith.
still give jah praise cause we been spiritually,
Maintaining gratitude to God despite life's challenges.
sodom & go-marrow can't mix we ina nuh folly,
Distancing oneself from immoral influences that lead to foolishness.
message to the pope deh over Italy,
Addressing religious authority with concern over their influence.
nuff man get soft yah now true dem hear visa a get Tek weh,
Many individuals have compromised their integrity, lured by material gain.
nuff self dem soul yah now end up pon a pole yah now,
A warning that many have sold their souls for superficial rewards.
(ChorusRPt)
Repeating the chorus to reinforce the main themes.
verse.2)plant the peas still a plant corn,
Continue to cultivate goodness while also seeking prosperity.
Babylon a war while the Rasta man farm,
While oppressive systems are in conflict, the Rasta focuses on nurturing life.
keep the peace still a keep the calm,
Maintain tranquility amidst chaos and unrest.
shelter the people dem right through the storm,
Providing safety and support for those in need during difficult times.
dem celebrate, Rasta a procreate,
Celebrating life and the importance of bringing new generations into the world.
mek some wonderful youth Rasta know seh wi great,
Nurturing talented children who embody the greatness of Rasta culture.
we & the woman dem never separate,
Emphasizing unity and partnership between men and women in the Rasta community.
Rasta man come to elevate,
The purpose of the Rasta man is to uplift and enhance the lives of others.
(chorus)
Returning to the chorus to emphasize key messages.
(Verses.3)
Introducing the final verse to provide further insight.
in this 21 century David would be Goliath still,
In today’s world, the underestimated will still challenge the powerful.
& inna 21 first century yah David beat Goliath still,
Encouraging resilience, suggesting that in our times, the underdog can still triumph over adversity.
(ChorusRPt)
Reiterating the powerful themes presented throughout the song.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Ginjah
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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on Blush
I love n feel the song
Juliuz Peter
on Never Lost My Way
i like it its so good