They recorded for the major Jamaican producers at the time, including Coxsone Dodd of Studio One fame. The Heptones had a number of Jamaican hits for Studio One, including "Pretty Looks Isn't All", "Fattie Fattie" and "I Hold the Handle." They went on to record with Joe Gibbs, Harry J (Harry Johnson), and Rupie Edwards. In 1977, they recorded "Party Time" for Lee Perry, one of Perry's finest productions, which included a version of Bob Dylan's "I Shall Be Released."
Sibbles left the group in 1977 to start a successful solo career. He was replaced by Naggo Morris. After Sibbles left, the group's popularity waned. The original trio reunited in 1995 and released Pressure! produced by Tappa Zukie
I've Got The Handle
The Heptones Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You've got the blade
So you don't try to fight me
Girl, 'cause you'll need first aid
Yeah
When I wake up in the morning
Fix me some orange juice
You just put yourself to use, 'cause
I've got the handle, baby
You've got the blade
So you don't try to fight me
Girl, 'cause you'll need first aid
Oh yeah
You're under my observation
And don't forget it
You're under my jurisdiction
And don't you bet it, girl, 'cause
I've got the handle, baby
You've got the blade
So you don't try to fight me
Girl, 'cause you'll need first aid
Oh yeah
(.)
And you're under my observation
And don't forget it
You're under my jurisdiction
And don't you bet it, girl, 'cause
I've got the handle, baby
You've got the blade
So you don't try to fight me
Girl, 'cause you'll need first aid
Oh yeah
I've got the handle, baby
You've got the blade
So you don't try to fight me
Girl, 'cause you'll need first aid
Oh yeah
I've got the handle, baby, baby.
The Heptones' "I've Got the Handle" is a song that seems to be addressing a power dynamic within a romantic relationship. The first verse sets up this dynamic, with the singer claiming to have the "handle" while the other person has the "blade." This suggests that the singer is in control, while the other person is potentially dangerous or unpredictable. The lyrics warn the other person not to try to fight or resist, as they will end up needing "first aid." The second verse reinforces this power dynamic, with the singer asserting that the other person is under their observation and jurisdiction.
While the power dynamic depicted in the song is troubling, the lyrics also suggest a certain amount of resignation or acceptance on the part of the singer. The lines "When I come home in the evening/You just put yourself to use" suggest that the other person's role is simply to be there for the singer's benefit, without any regard for their own needs or desires. The repetition of the chorus throughout the song reinforces the idea that this power dynamic is fixed and unchanging.
Overall, the lyrics of "I've Got the Handle" suggest a relationship in which one person maintains control through the threat of violence, and the other person is resigned to their role as a subordinate. It's a disturbing picture, but one that is all too common in real life.
Line by Line Meaning
I've got the handle, baby
I am in control of this situation
You've got the blade
You are trying to exert power or control over me
So you don't try to fight me
Don't oppose me or there will be consequences
Girl, 'cause you'll need first aid
You will suffer harm if you go against me
When I wake up in the morning
At the start of my day
Fix me some orange juice
Prepare my breakfast for me
And when I come home in the evening
At the end of my day
You just put yourself to use
You should be available for my needs
You're under my observation
I am monitoring your behavior
And don't forget it
Remember this fact
You're under my jurisdiction
You are subject to my authority
And don't you bet it, girl
Don't doubt my power or control
I've got the handle, baby, baby.
I am in command, no matter what
Writer(s): SIBBLIS LEROY ANTHONY
Contributed by Isaiah T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@56postoffice
8 people haven't got the handle. How can you dislike THIS!!?
@naturalmystic9
Because he's talking about domestic violence obviously 🙄
@DreadyNamedGary
Dark lyrics. But catchy. 😕
@jonathanjohnson7636
Memories with parents 🇯🇲🙏🏿🕺🚨🚨🚨
@Happey67
Take me down memory lane in JA.
@wesleywatson4985
Tuff tune. Blessings 🙏
@HillStreetReds
Teach Dem interview with Leroy Sibbles brought me here!!!
@jonathanjohnson7636
Music. Omg. Memories
@Jammdown69
Heptones!! a de bess!!
@trevondobson5814
good stuff