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
Message From a Black Man
The Heptones Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You can't stop me now
No matter how hard you try
You can't stop me now
Yes, my skin is black
But that's no reason to hold me back
Oh think about it, think about it,
Think about it, think about it
I have wants and desires just like you
So move on aside cause i'm a-comin' through
Oh no matter how hard you try you can't
Stop me now
No matter how hard you try you can't stop me now.
Yes, your skin is white
Does that make you right
Walk on and think about it, think about it
Think about it, think about it
Think about it, think about it, think about it.
This is a message, a message to y'all
Together we stand divided we fall
Black is a color just like white
Tell me how can a color determine whether
You're wrong or right
We all have our faults yes we do
So look in your mirror (Look in the mirror)
What do you see? (What do you see?)
Two eyes, a nose and a mouth just like me.
Oh your eyes are open but you refuse to see
The laws of society were made for both
You and me
Because of my color I struggle to be free
Sticks and stones may break my bones
But in the end you're gonna see my friend
Say it ... (No matter how hard you try you can't stop me now)
Say it ... (No matter how hard you try you can't stop me now)a
Say it loud! I'm Black and I'm Proud!
(No matter how you can't stop me now.)
Say it loud! I'm Black and I'm Proud!
(No matter how you can't stop me now.)
The Heptones' song "Message from a Black Man" is a powerful anthem that speaks to the struggle of Black individuals for equality and freedom. It sends a message of defiance to those who seek to hold Black people back due to the color of their skin, emphasizing that despite their efforts, they will not be stopped. The lyrics point out that Black people have the same desires and aspirations as white people, and that their skin color should not determine their opportunities in life. The chorus of the song repeats the message that no matter how hard people try to impede the progress of Black people, they will not succeed. The song serves not only as a message of hope and empowerment for Black people but also as a call to action for all people to stand together and fight for equality.
The song has a clear message of pride in one's race and heritage. The lyrics convey the idea that being Black is something to be proud of, and that Black people should not be ashamed or feel inferior because of their skin color. This message of pride and self-acceptance is an essential aspect of the song, as it encourages Black people to embrace their identity and reject the negative stereotypes that have been imposed on them by society. Furthermore, the song promotes unity and solidarity among people of all races and backgrounds. It emphasizes that people should stand together and fight against the injustices that exist in society, rather than being divided by race or ethnicity.
Line by Line Meaning
No matter how hard you try
No force or action can prevent me from achieving my goals
You can't stop me now
My determination and willpower are unbreakable
Yes, my skin is black
I am a person of color
But that's no reason to hold me back
My skin color should not be a barrier to my success
Oh think about it, think about it,
Reflect on this situation
I have wants and desires just like you
I have aspirations and dreams, just like any other human being
So move on aside cause i'm a-comin' through
I am determined to succeed, regardless of any obstacles in my way
Yes, your skin is white
You are a person of white color
Does that make you right
Does your skin color automatically make you superior?
Walk on and think about it, think about it
Continue to ponder this thought
This is a message, a message to y'all
This is a communication to everyone
Together we stand divided we fall
We must unite to overcome challenges
Black is a color just like white
Both colors are simply part of human variation
Tell me how can a color determine whether You're wrong or right
Skin color should not dictate someone's morality or character
We all have our faults yes we do
Everyone has flaws or imperfections
So look in your mirror (Look in the mirror)
Reflect on yourself
What do you see? (What do you see?)
What qualities or traits do you possess?
Two eyes, a nose and a mouth just like me.
We are fundamentally the same as humans, regardless of skin color
Oh your eyes are open but you refuse to see
You are aware of reality, but choose to ignore it
The laws of society were made for both You and me
Laws apply to all individuals equally
Because of my color I struggle to be free
Oppression and discrimination exist based on skin color
Sticks and stones may break my bones
Physical violence cannot defeat my spirit
But in the end you're gonna see my friend
Ultimately, my persistence will lead to success
Say it ... (No matter how hard you try you can't stop me now)
Repeat this phrase with me to reinforce its message
Say it loud! I'm Black and I'm Proud!
Express pride in my black identity and heritage
(No matter how you can't stop me now.)
Nothing can hinder my success and progress.
Contributed by Aria W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Fabio tuffgong
Belo som dos The Heptones
Paula Jordan
oh gosh, not heard in years :-) I LOVE THIS SONG ♥♡★★★★★
Beta Ray Bill
The Heptones did this song proud. Killer version. I think Jackie Mittoo did a cut on this as well. Funky brother.👌 There's a killer dub on one of Coxsone's dub albums from the 70s.
Andreas Hollander
@R.J. Paul Yes same to you. Was sorting out my Dub Specialist selection.
Honestly more work than I expected, but worth the effort.
R.J. Paul
@Andreas Hollander That is some serious research Andrea, and really appreciated! Now I know where to dig. Happy Christmas, thanks and blessings💚
Andreas Hollander
@R.J. Paul Did some research. It`s on one of the Dub Specialist albums : This song is on the album (Dread) Dub Store Special called Message From Dub (side 2 third recording) 1974 SOL 9011 or Sol 1132 ( see Discorgs).
My earlier message was a mix up with the song Black on Black from the Heptones aka Be A Man. That Dub version Called CABLE VERSION is on the album from Dub Specialist called Sample Dub (CS1397/CS1398). Also found that DJ cut called Be A Man Version by legendary King Stitt.
That Dub version is also on THE HEPTONES DUB DICTIONARY on the TRENCHTOWN label ( TTLP0052). Side1 song 9 called Be A Man Dub Style.
R.J. Paul
@Andreas Hollander BTW Andreas someone uploaded "Heptones - Message From A Black Man (extended version)" last month. Seems rare and is worth checking out. Bless.
Andreas Hollander
@R.J. Paul No problem....One world....One Studio 1
Claire Hughes
I'M BLACK AND I'M PROUD
I'm actually fair skinned and LOVE this song, no ones perfect which should be regarding my skin colour way more than yours
Much LOVE from Penmaenmawr
POWER to the PEOPLE
💙💙💙
Plant Daddy
This one is BIG! Bless!