artist, writer, poet, teacher and activist Faybiene Miranda
she recorded ‘Prophecy’ in the 70s for the great Jack Ruby as a hommage to Marcus Garvey, but her lyrics were too militant for the Jamaican authorities and it got banned on the island… nonetheless it went on to become a timeless hit in the sound system sessions…
from way back right up until today the tune is heavily celebrated by the roots lovers worldwide and holds a particular significance in the UK, where it truly has a sort of anthem status – the first few bars of the intro immediately being recognised by most crowds and often causing great furore…
‘Prophecy
Prophecy
Prophecy
Garvey prophesied
If there is a stand to be taken
Let not my people be forsaken
If there is a man to be blamed
Let the politician be named
People, heed the call
Our backs are now against the wall
Our backs are now against the wall
There is no redemption in sight
Until we people have our rights
Curfew fever burn through the night
Babylon won’t sleep tonight
People, heed the call
Our backs are now against the wall
Prophecy
Garvey prophesied
Prophecy
Garvey prophesied
If there is a stand to be taken
Let not my people be forsaken
If there is a man to be blamed
Let the politician be named
People, heed the call
Our backs are now against the wall
Do you hear me calling
Do you hear me calling
This is a warning
This is a warning
Get away from the wall
Get away from the wall
Stand up and be tall
Get away from the wall
This is a warning
Do you hear the calling
People crying
Misery in the streets
People dying
Hanging off the ‘ee
Do you hear me calling
Do you hear me calling’