Entry #6 Are You Trying To Succeed? - Courage to Grow by Rebelution

“This is a song for those, who lost their hope, a log a log time ago…. I know someday you will find it somehow” is the entrance of the virtuous group Rebelution. Why this song? Why not… that is the question. And to answer, there is no why not, that’s why I’m analyzing this song! It is exceptional in mixing both elements and creating a wonderful feeling of that normal reggae but without really being roots (reggae roots). This song is basically the start of the album, targeting all the audiences and encouraging them to grow spiritually and mentally in order to grow as a person. They attempt to express the message that anybody can be whatever they want to be, but they must put effort in order to achieve what you truly desire. However, them being American ruin the reggae genre?

Rebelution is a well-organized group, too well for even judging it. In order to understand me, listening to the song would be brilliant. With the different sounds they build from voice to instrumets, they accomplish the mission of delivering a suitable message for all: “Well you can gain the world but for the price of your soul, but I hope you take the road less traveled, well I hope you find the courage to GROW!” motivating the audience to don’t lose hope in getting what they want because there is nothing you can’t obtain in this world. They also play a nice strategy targeting the audience they surely have, which is 15-45 years old, telling them that they are not too ancient to acquire what they lack, whether it’s a car, house or even being somebody.

Actually, they mention, and I quote “So now you’re 45, and you realize, just what you want to do with your life. Just took sometime for you to figure it out… Cause every one of us has a purpose here, sometimes it’s hidden underneath your fear” the people who truly may be in the position of excessive depression or confusion for not doing what they want and mentioning the fear barrier that usually appears, maybe fearing to lose the only job or being useless at it before even practicing it. I believe it truly enlightens this song possibly making it personal for somebody, even favorite.

This group has been active since 2002, making it surely experienced in the reggae culture. What I enjoy from these folks is the idea they don’t attempt to sound or appear alike Rasta people, even though they are. They understand they are not roots enough to be the typical Rasta with dreadlocks because of their native country, so instead of being “wannabe’s” they essentially are whom they are, with their American accent in the songs, making it natural. I believe being natural while singing and playing is essential to be recognized, not showing off someone you’re not.

Rebelution has never been an outstanding group, making it somewhat underground. For various people, underground is superior since its not too mainstream. Witty thing how the artists mention in their twitter page how they need to maintain being underground, however currently is getting tough for them because of the vast attention it’s getting. Being Americans could affect the reggae genre, nevertheless these masterminds comprehend how to merge into the genre, which adds perfectly into the Rasta circle. I've selected this last picture, because I had that courage to grow and do what I wanted, by working hard and practicing I made it to the Peruvian drift championship, which I always desired.

                                     Me drifting in Peru with my 240sx, 5 July 2012













Work Cited:
Griffin, Taylor. "Interview with Rebelution." SF Critic. SF Paper, n.d. Web. 09 Dec. 2014. <http://www.sfcritic.com/2009/07/24/interview-with-rebelution/160>.
Joney, Ron. "Rebelution - Courage To Grow." YouTube. YouTube, 2 Apr. 2009. Web. 09 Dec. 2014. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5PESJgUHx4>.