His … Read Full Bio ↴Slim Smith was born Keith Smith in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1948.
His recording career began in a group called The Techniques that recorded for Duke Reid amongst others. When the original Techniques disbanded in 1965 he formed The Uniques.
From 1969 he concentrated on his solo career, recording sides for Coxone Dodd's Studio One, ten of which were compiled for the album Born To Love. He then began a successful working relationship with Bunny Lee, scoring a hit with 'Everybody Needs Love'.
By the start of the 70s he was having mental problems, resulting in a stay in the Bellevue Mental Hospital. In 1973 he injured himself trying to get into his parents house and died of his wounds.
The Time Has Come
Slim Smith Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Guided on a shoulders that some heavy loads
As I look back to see where I come from
I'm breathing in deep peace has come
Like an eagle flying high in the wind
Over the mountain and back again
I look down to see where I′ve come from
Yes I'm breathing in deep peace has come
Oh I had my forty days and forty nights
I know you never left my sight
These eyes have seen to know the truth so lemme
Starting to breath deep again
Breath in and breath out
Letting go of all fear and doubt
In Slim Smith's song "The Time Has Come," the artist reflects on his life and the journey that he has taken. He describes walking down many roads and carrying heavy loads, perhaps referring to the struggles and obstacles he has faced. However, as he looks back on where he has come from, he is able to breathe in deep peace. This feeling can be compared to that of an eagle flying over a mountain, feeling a sense of freedom and clarity.
Smith acknowledges that he has faced challenges in his life, represented by the reference to his "forty days and forty nights." Despite this, he feels that he was never alone and that "you never left my sight," possibly referring to a higher power or support system. He expresses gratitude for the experiences that have allowed him to know the truth and to let go of fear and doubt. The repetition of the phrase "breath in and breath out" gives the feeling of meditation or mindfulness, emphasizing the idea of letting go of negative thoughts and focusing on the present moment.
Overall, the theme of the song is one of reflection, gratitude, and peace. Smith acknowledges the difficulties he has faced but also recognizes the growth and self-discovery that has resulted from these experiences. The use of metaphors such as the eagle and the repetition of the breathing pattern gives the song a calming and meditative quality, inviting the listener to join Smith in his journey of self-reflection and acceptance.
Line by Line Meaning
I’ve walked on down on so many road
I've traveled a lot and been through many experiences, some of which were difficult.
Guided on a shoulders that some heavy loads
I've had support from others, but they also burdened me with their problems.
As I look back to see where I come from
Reflecting on my past experiences and how they've shaped me.
I'm breathing in deep peace has come
I'm feeling a sense of calm and contentment in this moment.
Like an eagle flying high in the wind
Feeling free and unburdened, like a majestic bird soaring through the skies.
Over the mountain and back again
I've been through challenges and come out the other side, stronger for it.
I look down to see where I’ve come from
Taking stock of my journey and recognizing how far I've come.
Yes I'm breathing in deep peace has come
Emphasizing the sense of calm and contentment I'm currently experiencing.
Oh I had my forty days and forty nights
Referring to a difficult period in my life that lasted for a while.
I know you never left my sight
Acknowledging that I had support and guidance during that difficult period.
These eyes have seen to know the truth so lemme
My experiences have given me insight and understanding of the world and myself.
Starting to breath deep again
Taking a moment to regroup and ground myself by taking deep breaths.
Breath in and breath out
A reminder to focus on one's breathing as a way to manage stress and anxiety.
Letting go of all fear and doubt
Releasing negative emotions and beliefs in order to move forward with a sense of peace and purpose.
Writer(s): Lonnie Wilson, Susan Longacre
Contributed by Maya M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Human Being
This tune made me feel so emotional as a child... and 50 years later... it still does...frightening outstanding vocalist... SLIM SMITH
Funky String Art
Hearing this song (and I Miss My School Days by BB Seaton) has the same effect on me. I'm writing about my earliest memories, and one of them was hearing this song.
Mindscapes of Colour
Wow my heart is in turmoil listening to this song...one of the songs that made me cry and STILL it makes me feel emotional years later.
Sjoerd Taekema
Thank you for showing me this wonderful artist. Never knew him and I'm diving right in the deep and refreshing ocean of this sound!
Lee Roberts
Has got to be in my top ten all-time fav rocksteady/reggae crossover. Fantastic tune!
Jose Pacheco
Pedrada tu é doido Dj toca de novo 😃💚💛❤👍
Lee Roberts
Slim Smith, one of the best!
Citizen Warwick
Man such an epic tune!
Yve Williams
This song always Reminds me of my brother. Continue to R I P Joey❤❤🙏🏾 19/10/23
Jusme1 13knowledge™
Love dis tune