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Mighty Diamonds are a Jamaican trio who had major success during the 70's at the 'Channel One' studio and record label at Maxfield Avenue, Jamaica.
Despite their heyday at Channel One, the trio continued to produce sublime work in later years, notably for 'Gussie Clarke' with the classic 'Pass The Kouchie' which rode an updated cut of an old Studio One instrumental called 'Full Up'. The tune was also covered by the English group 'Musical Youth' but was known as 'Pass The Dutchie'.
Poor Marcus Garvey
The Mighty Diamonds Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Them never love, never love,
Never love poor Marcus
Till they betray him
Him own brethren sell him fe rice 'n' peas
They didn't know there would be days like this
Now do you man waste in such a squeeze, yeah
[Chorus]
Men like Bag O' Wire should burn in fire
The betrayer of Marcus Garvey
[Chorus]
'Til the betray, one bredren sell him for rice and peas
They didn't know there would be days like these
Now the human race in such a squeeze, mmm Yeah
[Chorus]
Men like Bag O' Wire should burn
In fire fire fire, Lord betrayer.
[Chorus]
Black man come together, unity is forever
The Mighty Diamonds's song "Poor Marcus Garvey" tells the story of betrayal and lack of support that Marcus Garvey, the Jamaican political leader and activist, faced during his fight for the rights of black people. In the lyrics, the band is criticizing those who professed to follow Garvey's ideas and ideals, but did nothing to help him when he needed it the most. The first two lines of the chorus repeat the phrase "never love poor Marcus" three times, emphasizing the lack of love and support he received from those around him.
The third line of the chorus takes a more aggressive tone, calling for justice to be served, as the lyrics say: "Men like Bag O'Wire should burn in fire, the betrayer of Marcus Garvey." The reference is to Bag O'Wire, a pseudonym used to refer to the person who reportedly sold Garvey out to the authorities for a bag of rice and peas. The song calls for accountability and punishment for those who betrayed Garvey and his cause.
The last lines of the song call for unity among black people, emphasizing the need for coming together and standing up for one's rights. The lyrics encourage listeners to remember Garvey's legacy and continue his fight for equality and justice.
Line by Line Meaning
Them never love, never love, never love poor Marcus-they never love him, oh no
Marcus Garvey was not loved by those around him. This lack of love was evident and palpable.
Them never love, never love, never love poor Marcus
Marcus Garvey's lack of love was never-ending; it was a constant absence.
Till they betray him
Those around Marcus Garvey turned against him and betrayed him.
Him own brethren sell him fe rice 'n' peas
Even his own family members and close relationships turned against him for their own personal gain and sustenance. This betrayal was to the point of trading him for food.
They didn't know there would be days like this
The betrayers never anticipated that they would come to a point where they would sell out their own for sustenance and personal gain. They underestimated the gravity of their actions.
Now do you man waste in such a squeeze, yeah
The current state is described as tense and restrained. The situation has put Marcus Garvey and the community at large under tremendous stress, leaving them with few options and little power.
Men like Bag O' Wire should burn in fire
The betrayer of Marcus Garvey should be punished and condemned for their actions in the most severe way possible - by being burnt alive.
The betrayer of Marcus Garvey
The individuals responsible for the betrayal of Marcus Garvey are to be singled out and identified for their treacherous actions.
Black man come together, unity is forever
This serves as a call to action to the black community to come together in solidarity and unity; to put aside their differences and work together to achieve their goals. A warning that betrayal within the community is unacceptable and unity is the key to lasting success.
Lyrics © PIGFACTORY USA LLC
Written by: JOSEPH HOOKIM, LLOYD FERGUSON, DONALD SHAW, FITZROY SIMPSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@genegoldberg6952
Been listen to M.D since the early 1970's. Love Tosh, Bunny, Wailers,Dennis Brown etc. Now 53 years later still Primo enjoyment.
@normathompson5743
R.I.P. TABBY DIAMOND 💎 YOU HAVE LEFT US WITH MOUNTAINS OF MEMOIRS.
@regsis
This is a childhood song I enjoyed rocking to as a child. My late father, who I may I add was the kindest, most gentle father anyone could ask for, played songs like these for me. It gave me a stepping stone to reggae music which I have loved ever since then.Even more so now I am a huge, life long reggae fan. It’s in my roots and will always be apart of me. Thanks Pops for introducing me to the wonderful genre of reggae music. Rest In Peace and enjoy these works in heaven. Love and miss you dearly
@gracemitchell373
Yes I grow up on those songs I love to listen the one that say marcus Garvey when my dad draw for him turntable and his lp a trouble those was the day’s
@dustyddrumologistdubreggae3066
One of the best Harmony, rythm's and band to ever come out of J.A!!!777
@jamesnjoroge5729
Heard it first back in '96 in Diani beach... fell in love with it instantly!
@trevorcampbell579
Condolences to the family of one the greatest voices to ever come out Jamaica! So sad! Love me some Diamonds
@armandhelaire5215
Damn. I’ve recently been very emotional listening to these songs but I didn’t know about this very sad news. It’s almost like my spirit knew.😞
@taylorebersole1889
Rest In Peace! Thank you for all your wonderful vibes!!!!!!
@edwinkidambu165
RIP Tabby.