Wailing Wailers 'Rude Boy': Song Analysis

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This debut album that was originally released in late 1965 contains songs that hold a multitude of styles, called Ska. The song “Rude Boy” became a youth anthem that established the Wailing Wailers as leaders of the new ska movement in 1965. This album is a perfect explanation of what culture sounds like. The deep meaning of the lyrics and the tonality of the music describes history while it was in the making. The group originally was a leader in the beginning of the ska movement that had a very punchy beat with a mix of reggae, R&B, and jazz. Each song on the album produces a unique sound. Sometimes that sound comes from a soloist saxophone or trumpet; but, sometimes the unique and popular sound came from the rhythm the percussion instruments carried. This group had a unique history. The Wailing Wailers’ lead vocalist, Bob Marley, developed a popular career. In 1966, Marley married Rita, or Alpharita Constantia Anderson. Rita also had a wonderful musical talent. She began singing with her cousin and a friend as a trio. The trio later joined the Wailing Wailers as background singers. The group contained…show more content…
This song was released as a single in 1963. By 1964, the song became Jamaica’s number one hit. The punchy upbeat rhythm covered a plea for peace. “Simmer down, oh control your temper. Simmer down, for the battle will be hotter. Simmer down, and you won't get no supper”. During the time that the song was originally recorded there was a multitude of political changes and disagreements. Marley and the Wailers reflected the frustration they felt due to the fights into the lyrics they wrote. The theme of peace is consistent within the entire album. Not only do the rhythms make people want to jump up and down, but the lyrics make people ponder why we can’t just get along. Bob Marley kept this consistent theme throughout the rest of his

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