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.
Dance To The Music
Johnny Clarke Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Get out rock with the rhythm.
Music so sweet, music so nice
Music to make you feel alright.
Music for the young, music for the old
come on everyone, get around
Johnny Clarke's song "Dance To The Music" is an invitation for everyone to come together and groove to the beat. The opening line "Come on dance to the music" is an encouragement that beckons the listener to forget their worries and just move their body. The music is described as "sweet" and "nice", which suggests that it is pleasing to the ears and easy to dance to. The idea that music can make you feel alright is an affirmation of its positive effects on our emotions and general well-being. The song crosses generational boundaries since it's stated that the music is for both the young and the old. This reveals that the appeal of music transcends individual differences and socio-cultural contexts. The fact that Clarke invites everyone to come together and dance suggests that music has the power to unite people and bridge gaps.
The lyrics "Get out rock with the rhythm" demand that the listener fully engage with the music and allow their body to move in sync with the rhythm. The use of the word "rock" signifies the kind of music that is being referred to, which is likely a blend of rock, reggae, and ska since Johnny Clarke is known for his work in those genres. This reinforces the idea that music is not stagnant, but it evolves and combines with other genres to form a unique sound. The phrase "get around" at the end could be interpreted as a form of invitation, encouraging people to gather around a common interest, which is enjoying the music.
Line by Line Meaning
Come on dance to the music,
Encouragement to move your body to the beat of the music
Get out rock with the rhythm.
Suggesting to really let loose and synchronize movement with the beat
Music so sweet, music so nice
Describing the pleasant and enjoyable nature of the music
Music to make you feel alright.
Indicating that the music has the power to improve your mood and make you feel good
Music for the young, music for the old
Implying that regardless of age, the music is for everyone to enjoy
come on everyone, get around
Encouraging groups of people to come together and enjoy the music as a collective experience
Contributed by Claire O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@luanventuradub
19th Nov 2022... Johnny Clarke here in Brazil singing this one live and direct was totally exciting.... no words, just I give thanks!
@BraveApes
The Best over..
@Weisscarter
Goosebumps tune!
Who feels it knows it seen? Give thanks for all things
@jimbo5628
Come on dance to the music,
Get out rock with the rhythm.
Music so sweet, music so nice
Music to make you feel alright.
Music for the young, music for the old
come on everyone, get around
@kapenimelesse5484
Rub a dub style. Dem kind of style!
@flaviorodrigues2893
Quem está em 2022 curtindo essa pedrada ?
@janneharkio
🔥
@daminoush
he's the best of the best
@erocc619
Lovin this cut
@rodrigofreitas4936
Pow pow pow!!!