They formed the Melody Makers when they were teenagers in 1979, and recorded "Children Playing in the Streets" with their father. They went on to perform at their father's funeral in 1981.
The band's popularity was at its highest during 1988, prompting a major record deal with Virgin Records. Shortly thereafter, the group released "Conscious Party," their third album. On the album was the hit single "Tomorrow People," and the album went on to earn a well-deserved Grammy.
Freedom Road
Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Marching down freedom's road.
Ain't nobody gonna stop me, nobody gonna keep me,
From marching down freedom's road.
Hand me my gun, let the bugle blow loud,
I'm on my way with my head a-proud,
One objective I've got in view,
That's why I'm marching, yes, I'm marching,
Marching down freedom's road.
Ain't nobody gonna stop me, nobody gonna keep me,
From marching down freedom's road.
Ought to be plain as the nose on your face,
There's room in this plan for every race,
Some folk think that freedom just ain't right,
Those are the very people I want to fight.
That's why I'm marching, yes, I'm marching,
Marching down freedom's road.
Ain't nobody gonna stop me, nobody gonna keep me,
From marching down freedom's road.
Now, Hitler may rant, Hirohito may rave,
I'm going after freedom if it leads me to my grave.
That's why I'm marching, yes, I'm marching,
I'm marching down freedom's road.
United we stand, divided we fall,
Let's make this land safe for one and all.
I've got a message, and you know it's right,
Black and white together unite and fight.
That's why I'm marching, yes, I'm marching,
Marching down freedom's road.
Ain't no fascists gonna stop me, no Nazis gonna keep me,
From marching down freedom's road
The lyrics of Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers’ song “Freedom Road” speaks to the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice, and encourages individuals to stand up and fight for their rights. It highlights the need for unity amongst all races, despite opposition and oppression. The opening two lines suggest that the singer is determined to stand up for his rights and march forward towards his goal of freedom, despite any obstacle he may face. The use of the word “nobody” suggests that he is aware of possible opposition but is steadfast in his purpose. He is aware that the journey to freedom might not be an easy one, but he is willing to fight for it with an open heart and a determined spirit.
In the second verse, the singer continues to express his determination to achieve his objective of freedom. He uses the metaphor of a constant war, where he is equipped with his gun and on the march with his head held high. Nonetheless, there is only one objective in his view, which he describes as keeping the hold of freedom for him and those around him. He is aware that freedom is a precious commodity that is not easily won and must be fought for.
The final verse emphasizes unity and the need to come together to fight for one cause. The singer urges all to come together, black and white people alike and fight for freedom. The following line suggests that the struggle against fascism and Nazism was particularly relevant at the time the song was written. Nevertheless, the underlying message is still relevant today, encouraging people around the world to stand up for their rights and fight against all forms of oppression and injustice.
Line by Line Meaning
That's why I'm marching, yes, I'm marching,
I am marching down freedom's road because I believe in the importance of freedom.
Marching down freedom's road.
I am moving forward on a journey towards freedom.
Ain't nobody gonna stop me, nobody gonna keep me,
I am determined to reach my destination, and no one will prevent me from doing so.
Hand me my gun, let the bugle blow loud,
I am ready to defend my freedom, and I am calling out for battle.
I'm on my way with my head a-proud,
I am marching with pride towards my goal.
One objective I've got in view,
I have a clear goal in mind.
Is to keep a hold of freedom for me and you
I am fighting for the preservation of freedom.
Ought to be plain as the nose on your face,
It should be obvious to anyone.
There's room in this plan for every race,
Everyone deserves to be included in the fight for freedom.
Some folk think that freedom just ain't right,
Some people believe that freedom is not a valuable or worthy cause.
Those are the very people I want to fight.
I am willing to fight against those who do not believe in freedom.
Now, Hitler may rant, Hirohito may rave,
Even if powerful people oppose me, I will still continue to march forward.
I'm going after freedom if it leads me to my grave.
I am willing to sacrifice everything in pursuit of freedom.
United we stand, divided we fall,
We must stand together in order to succeed.
Let's make this land safe for one and all.
We must work together to ensure the safety of all people.
I've got a message, and you know it's right,
My message is one of truth and righteousness.
Black and white together unite and fight.
People of all races must come together to fight for freedom.
Ain't no fascists gonna stop me, no Nazis gonna keep me,
No oppressive group will prevent me from achieving my goal of freedom.
From marching down freedom's road.
I will continue to march forward towards freedom.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Peermusic Publishing
Written by: ALI COLE, ALISON COLE, DAVID COLE, STEPHEN MARLEY, ZIGGY MARLEY
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@nathanmartin4100
Big up..God bless the Marleys. This song reminds me of driving to and from work..trying to keep the peace in the rat race
@alexandres8846
The best reggae for me!
@toguhx
Got to reach the freeway
@crystalaugust2660
This is amazing
@lancelotbentinck5267
Sounds for all seasons.
@freespirit21newyork
Love this kick ass reggae jam 🌿❤️💛💚
💋🍭
@granbirthday462
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
@robertcorrea557
DA REALLEST🥰🥰👍👍
@catselah7368
And dem big time politricktion. ....
Got to tear the barriers down👎