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
Swing Low
The Heptones Lyrics
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Isn't it strange how princesses and kings
In clown-ragged capers in, sawdust rings
Just while common people like you and me
We'll be builders for eternity
Each is given a bag of tools
A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
Each must make his life as flowing in
Tumbling block on a stepping stone
Just while common people like you and me
We'll be builders for eternity
Each is given a bag of tools
A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
(.)
I says, common people like you and me
We'll be builders for eternity
Each is given a bag of tools
A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
Look when the rain has fallen from the sky
I know the sun will be only missing for a while
I says, common people like you and me
We'll be builders for eternity
Each is given a bag of tools
A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
(.)
I says, common people like you and me
We'll be builders for eternity
Each is given a bag of tools
A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
The Heptones' song "Swing Low" has powerful lyrics that evoke spirituality and the struggle of making a meaningful life. The opening lines draw a sharp contrast between common people and those of nobility, suggesting that the latter might live in frivolousness, while the former have to work hard to create something of substance, like a home or a life. However, the song also portrays an image of eternity that all people can access if they follow the rules of life.
The lyrics then describe how each individual is given a bag of tools and a book of rules to make sense of their lives. The metaphor suggests that life is something you construct and that you have the means to do it. However, the tools one is given are shapeless, meaning that a person must have a keen understanding of their potentials and inclinations to shape their unique tools into something functional. The book of rules can be interpreted in different ways, but the most plausible idea is that it comes with basic instructions of how to behave and live a meaningful life.
The chorus repeats the idea that, unlike kings and princesses who are merely playing a role, common people, like the audience of the song, will be builders for eternity. A significant aspect of the lyrics is that the authors believe it's not the finished product but the process that matters. Life, as stated in the song, is like a tumbling block on a stepping stone, suggesting that life is full of ups and downs and that a person can learn from every experience.
Line by Line Meaning
Isn't it strange how princesses and kings In clown-ragged capers in, sawdust rings
Have you ever noticed the oddity in how those in power might act foolishly, playing the part of a clown in a circus, while regular people like you and me are expected to live ordinary lives?
Just while common people like you and me We'll be builders for eternity Each is given a bag of tools A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
While those in power may enjoy their personal dramas, common people like us have the task of building our lives with the tools and guidance we're given in the form of the book of rules - a set of instructions with no set form.
Each must make his life as flowing in Tumbling block on a stepping stone
Despite the lack of a concrete blueprint, everyone is expected to create their own path in life, laying down the pieces of the puzzle one at a time on a staircase that leads to the next level, ensuring a steady climb.
Look when the rain has fallen from the sky I know the sun will be only missing for a while
When clouds are overhead and it seems as if the rain will never stop, we must remember that it will eventually clear up, and the sun will shine bright in the sky once again.
I says, common people like you and me We'll be builders for eternity Each is given a bag of tools A shapeless mass. and the book of rules
As common people, we have the responsibility of continuously building our lives for as long as we live, utilizing the tools and guidelines given to us through the formless resources available in the book of rules.
Writer(s): CLEMENT DODD, RICHARD BENNETT, ERROL WINSTON STERLING
Contributed by Oliver W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Eye La
YESSSSAH!!
ben carry
Jesus
San Diegorocker
JAH
Lawrence Njawe
Thumps down. Weak song
Tim B
Lawrence, you lost. Admit it.
Lawrence Njawe
@Joost Merkx what took you so long to response, needed credit? Mr one liner. I can afford to lose for a nut like you
Joost Merkx
Troll on disappointed one.
Lawrence Njawe
@Joost Merkx So the great idiot is back with a 2 sentence response. What shocking lack of imagination. I expected more from you but I'm so disappointed
Joost Merkx
Is there a stupid one here? I only saw some weak comments.