Third World is a Jamaican reggae group consisting of William 'Bunny Rugs' C… Read Full Bio ↴Third World is a Jamaican reggae group consisting of William 'Bunny Rugs' Clark (vocals), Steven 'Cat' Coore (guitar, cello, harmonica, vocals), Richard 'Richie' Daley (bass, vocals), Herbert Harris (Keyboard), and Tony Williams (drummer).

They were formed in 1973 and are still releasing records today. Their lineup has changed over the years, as has their musical style, although it has not strayed too far from the "roots reggae" style that they are generally categorized as.

With Dean Pond in the touring lineup (Dean Pond, founder of Dub Mystic and one time musical director and drummer for Culture, and V.I. producer of the year) this year (??) should prove to be even bigger for Third World.

Satta Amasa Gana
Third World Lyrics

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There is a land, far far away
Where there's no night, there's only day
Look into the book of life, and you will see
That there's a land, far far away
That there's a land, far far away

The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords
Sit upon His throne and He rules us all

Look into the book of life, and you will see
That He rules us all
That He rules us all

The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords
Sit upon His throne and He rules us all
Look into the book of life, and you will see
That He rules us all
That He rules us all

There is a land, far far away
Where there's no night, there's only day
Look into the book of life, and you will see
That there's a land, far far away
That there's a land, far far away

Satta Massagana
Ahamlack, Ulaghize
Satta Massagana

Ahamlack, Ulaghize
Ulaghize, Ulaghize

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Satta Amasa Gana" by Third World speak of a distant land that is different from the one we know. This far-off place is characterized by perpetual daylight, indicating that it is likely a metaphorical utopia. The lyrics also mention a ruler, described as the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords," who presides over this land from his throne. This ruler is all-powerful, as evidenced by the lyrics that say, "He rules us all." However, the tone of the lyrics is not one of fear or submission but rather of hope and longing for the better life that this ruler and land represent. The lyrics also include the Ethiopian phrase "Satta Massagana," which translates to "give thanks."

It is noteworthy that "Satta Amasa Gana" was released in 1976 by the band Third World, at a time when reggae and Rastafarianism were rapidly gaining popularity. The lyrics reflect the Rastafarian belief in a promised land, which they also refer to as Zion, that they seek to reach during their lifetime. The lyrics of "Satta Amasa Gana" are in line with this belief and reflect the Rastafarian desire for a better life beyond what they see as the oppressive systems present in their current reality.

The song's title is also interesting, as it uses the Amharic language (which is the official language of Ethiopia) to refer to "sing praises" or "give thanks." This indicates the influence of Ethiopian culture on the Rastafarian belief system, which views Ethiopia as the promised land.

Line by Line Meaning

There is a land, far far away
There exists a distant land that seems beyond reach

Where there's no night, there's only day
In this land, the absence of darkness means the presence of light

Look into the book of life, and you will see
By examining the pages of existence and reflecting on its contents

That there's a land, far far away
One will realize the truth of this distant place

That there's a land, far far away
This place is so distant that it is emphasized twice

The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords
The one who reigns supreme over all kings and lords

Sit upon His throne and He rules us all
Sits in a position of power and authority over everything and everyone

That He rules us all
There is no exception to His rule

That He rules us all
Again, emphasizing that the reach of His power is all-encompassing

Satta Massagana
Give thanks and praises

Ahamlack, Ulaghize
To the Almighty, for He is supreme

Satta Massagana
Give thanks and praises

Ahamlack, Ulaghize
To the Almighty, for He is supreme

Ulaghize, Ulaghize
Supreme, supreme

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group, BMG Rights Management
Written by: CARL DAWKINS, DONALD MANNING, LINFORD ELIJAH MANNING

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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