Dec
Third World
40 years Strong (1973 – present)
By: Nicholas Da Silva aka ZOOLOOK
I still remember the night I first experienced the music of Third World. It was a Monday night at the Firehouse 7, an old firehouse in San Francisco’s Mission district that had been converted into a bar/nightclub. Monday nights were reggae nights at the club and even though it was the beginning of the work week, people still poured in from all over the bay area to get one last drop of Roots, Rock, Reggae. The occupancy of the bar was 200 maximum but I swear there were nights when it felt as if there were 400 people jammed inside swaying to the reggae music. And no one complained. No one.
I had just finished off my second Red Stripe when I decided to climb the ladder to the DJ booth to join my friend, DJ Carol, who was spinning at the time. Her perch above the club was the best seat in the house, providing a panoramic view of the packed dance floor, bar and pool table. That’s when she put on one special vinyl, introducing me to Third World’s cult classic, “1865 – 96 Degrees in the Shade”. I’ll never forget that moment. As I listened to the track, I was mesmerized by the lyrics. I thought to myself was this a song or a history lesson? Whatever it was, it woke me up, pulled me in and made me never forget about this band. I wanted more!
I soon discovered that Third World was no ordinary band. They were a Roots Reggae band alright but with a clever mix of other music genres including R & B, Funk and Disco. I strongly believe that this reggae fusion has allowed Third World to stand the test of time, continually putting out extraordinary music for their fans worldwide. With four decades of hit songs and sold-out shows, Third World is considered one of the most popular reggae bands in the world. And as Jamaica’s longest-running band, their legacy is enduring. Other bands have come and gone, but Third World has managed to stay together, celebrating 40 years strong, which can only mean one thing… Love! That’s right! And if you listened to their music, you’ll not only hear the love, you’ll also feel it too!
Their most recent album release, Patriots, is no exception! The 13 track album, their 23rd album release to date, offers something for every type of listener. The guest lineup includes Stephen & Damian Marley, Mykal Rose, Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley, Toots Hibbert, Capleton, Gregory Isaacs, Dean Fraser, Jr. Reid & Inner Circle and the recent winner of NBC’s The Voice season 5, Tessanne Chin. I think you’ll agree with me when I say that Third World is Reggae music at its highest order.
Irie recently had the opportunity to catch up with Third World foundation members, Cat Coore, Bunny Rugs and Richard Daley …
