Album Info
| Artist: | Desmond Dekker |
| Album: | The Israelites |
| Released: | UK, 2016 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Israelites | 2:35 |
| Written-By - Dacres, Kong | ||
| A2 | It Is Not Easy | 2:12 |
| Written-By - Dacres, Kong | ||
| A3 | Intensified | 2:38 |
| Written-By - Dacres, Kong | ||
| A4 | Tips Of My Fingers | 3:30 |
| Written-By - Anderson | ||
| A5 | Too Much Too Soon | 2:32 |
| Written-By - Dacres, Kong | ||
| B1 | It Mek | 2:34 |
| Written-By - Dacres | ||
| B2 | Nincom Poop | 2:05 |
| Written-By - Dacres, Kong | ||
| B3 | Problems | 2:21 |
| Written-By - Dacres | ||
| B4 | For Once In My Life | 2:57 |
| Written-By - Murden, Miller | ||
| B5 | Rude Boy train | 2:14 |
| Written-By - Dacres, Kong |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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Description
Desmond Dekker's "The Israelites" is a cornerstone of reggae music and a track that has transcended its era to become a timeless classic. Released in 1968, the song "Israelites" was a groundbreaking hit, not only in Jamaica but also internationally, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and making a significant impact in the United States. It was one of the first reggae songs to achieve such widespread success, introducing the genre to a global audience and paving the way for other Jamaican artists to follow.
The song itself is a masterclass in storytelling and rhythm. Dekker's distinctive vocal delivery, with its plaintive and soulful tone, conveys a sense of struggle and resilience that resonates deeply. The lyrics, which reflect the hardships of working-class life and the yearning for a better future, are both specific to the Jamaican experience and universally relatable. The phrase "Get up in the morning, slaving for bread, sir" captures the daily grind and the hope for something more, a theme that has made the song enduringly relevant.
Musically, "Israelites" is a perfect example of the early reggae sound, with its syncopated rhythm, prominent bassline, and skanking guitar. The production, handled by the legendary Leslie Kong, is crisp and vibrant, allowing each element of the arrangement to shine. The backing vocals, provided by Dekker's group The Aces, add a rich harmonic layer that complements his lead vocal beautifully. The song's infectious groove and memorable melody make it instantly recognisable and endlessly replayable.
"Israelites" was not just a commercial success; it was also a cultural milestone. At a time when reggae was still emerging as a distinct genre, the song demonstrated its potential to connect with audiences far beyond Jamaica. It also highlighted the talent and creativity of Jamaican musicians, who were beginning to make their mark on the global stage. Dekker's success with "Israelites" helped to open doors for other artists, such as Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff, who would go on to achieve international acclaim.
Desmond Dekker's influence on reggae and popular music cannot be overstated. His ability to blend catchy melodies with meaningful lyrics set a standard for the genre and inspired countless artists. "Israelites" remains his most iconic song, but his discography is filled with other gems that showcase his talent and versatility. Songs like "007 (Shanty Town)" and "It Mek" are also classics that deserve attention.
Listening to "Israelites" today, it's easy to see why it has endured. The song's message of perseverance and hope is as relevant now as it was over fifty years ago, and its infectious rhythm and melody continue to captivate listeners. Desmond Dekker's legacy as a pioneer of reggae music is secure, and "Israelites" stands as a testament to his artistry and vision.
