Having left Coxsone the Ethiopians started recording at Dynamic Studios for the W.I.R.L. label releasing one of the all-time ska classics, the exhuberant 'Train to Skaville', which was their first success. In 1968 they recorded the song Everything Crash, their first big hit and a cry of criticism on the political situation in Jamaica at the time (water rationing and power cuts had been introduced leading to unrest, 31 people were shot by the police). Everything Crash was later covered by Prince Buster. 'The Whip' is another of their enduring songs from that period.
In 1969 they released the album Reggae Power and in 1970 the album Woman a Capture Man. In the period '70 - '75 the Ethiopians switched from producer to producer releasing several great songs like, no baptism, pirate and good ambition. In 1975 Stephen Taylor died in a car crash, Leonard Dillon continued to tour as the Ethiopian. In 1991 he recorded the album "On The Road Again".
There is also another band under the name as "ETHIOPIANS." They are a lo-fi band with a mix of garage rock and surf creating a unique atmospheric sound. Members of ETHIOPIANS are Marty Brass and Paul Ryan.
The Ring
The Ethiopians Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Everybody getting married puts a ring upon finger
Everybody getting married puts a ring upon finger
Everybody getting married puts a ring upon finger
I said, the ring, the ring, upon finger
To get it is a problem, and to keep it is a bigger problem
To get it is a problem, and to keep it is a bigger problem
Because you marry today, and you divorce tomorrow
So I said the ring, the ring, is some upon finger
Samson was a Dread, and Delilah trim his head
Samson was a Dread, and Delilah trim his head
Say they they jump in, and they jump out
So I said the ring, the ring, is some upon finger
I said the ring, the ring, is some upon finger
The Ethiopians's song The Ring speaks to the societal expectation of getting married and wearing a ring as a symbol of that marriage. The song highlights the irony that while getting the ring might prove difficult, the real challenge often lies in keeping the marriage intact. The lyrics also reference the story of Samson and Delilah, famous for their tragic love affair. The dreadlocks-wearing Samson was betrayed by the beautiful Delilah, who cut off his hair and gave him over to his enemies. This reference adds to the message of the song, which warns against the fleeting nature of love and the importance of keeping promises.
The repetition of the phrase "the ring, the ring, upon finger" emphasizes the significance societal norms place on the ring and its ability to symbolize love and commitment. However, the song highlights the pitfalls of these expectations, as marriages do not always last, and relationships can be betrayed.
The lyrics suggest that love and commitment cannot simply be symbolized by a piece of jewelry, but rather should be demonstrated through actions and dedication. The song challenges listeners to think beyond the surface level of societal expectations and examine the true foundations of lasting relationships.
Line by Line Meaning
Everybody getting married puts a ring upon finger
The act of marriage symbolized by wearing a ring on the finger.
To get it is a problem, and to keep it is a bigger problem
Obtaining a ring for marriage is difficult, but maintaining the marriage is even more challenging.
Because you marry today, and you divorce tomorrow
Marriage can end abruptly with divorce, despite the initial commitment.
Samson was a Dread, and Delilah trim his head
An example of a relationship where one was betrayed and harmed by the other.
Say they they jump in, and they jump out
Indicating that some people enter and exit relationships without much commitment.
I said the ring, the ring, is some upon finger
The repetition emphasizes the importance of the symbolism of the ring, yet its meaning can be fleeting.
Writer(s): Leonard Dillon, Leonard Winston Dillon Copyright: Music Like Dirt, Music Like Dirt *terminated
Contributed by Miles V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@hinosquemarcaramepocas7627
Very good this reggae
@Jahrastaman462
Killaaah tune