The Right Thing To Do - Uplifting Reggae Grooves Combined With Thought-Provoking Lyrics About Social Justice

Bob Marley. The name alone conjures images of sun-drenched beaches, laid-back vibes, and powerful lyrics that speak to the soul. But beyond the icon himself, reggae music has always been a hotbed for social commentary, blending infectious rhythms with messages about equality, love, and unity.

Today, we’re diving into “The Right Thing To Do” by The Mighty Diamonds, a trio whose vocal harmonies are as smooth as Jamaican rum and whose message resonates just as deeply as Marley’s. This track is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a call to action, urging listeners to stand up for what they believe in and fight against injustice wherever they see it.

Released in 1976 on the legendary Studio One label, “The Right Thing To Do” exemplifies the golden age of roots reggae. The song opens with a crisp, echoing drumbeat that sets the stage for the cascading melody of the bassline. Layered over this foundation are bright, jangling guitar chords and a hypnotic keyboard riff that weaves its way through the entire song.

But it’s the Mighty Diamonds’ vocals that truly shine. Their three-part harmony is seamless and soulful, effortlessly blending together to create a sound that’s both powerful and uplifting. Lloyd “Judge” Ferguson, Fitzroy “Bunny” Simpson, and Donald “Tabby” Shaw each bring their own unique vocal timbre and phrasing to the song, creating a dynamic interplay that keeps the listener engaged from beginning to end.

Lyrically, “The Right Thing To Do” is a potent mix of social commentary and personal reflection. The Diamonds urge listeners to stand up for what they believe in, even if it means going against the grain:

“It’s the right thing to do, Stand up for what you know is true. Don’t let them tell you what to think, Use your voice and make a link.”

The lyrics also touch on themes of poverty, inequality, and the importance of community. The Diamonds paint a vivid picture of life in Jamaica, highlighting both the beauty and the struggles faced by its people:

“We struggle every day, Trying to find a better way. But with love and unity, We can overcome adversity.”

“The Right Thing To Do” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for anyone who believes in making the world a better place. Its message of social justice, empowerment, and unity continues to resonate today, reminding us that we all have a responsibility to fight for what we believe in.

Musical Influences and Background:

To understand “The Right Thing To Do” fully, it’s important to delve into the musical landscape from which it emerged. The song is a product of Jamaica’s vibrant reggae scene in the 1970s, a time when artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Burning Spear were using their music to shed light on social issues.

Roots reggae, as this subgenre was known, emphasized stripped-down instrumentation, soulful vocals, and lyrics that tackled themes of poverty, inequality, oppression, and Rastafarian spirituality. Studio One, the label that released “The Right Thing To Do,” played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of reggae music. Founded by Clement “Coxsone” Dodd, Studio One was a breeding ground for some of Jamaica’s most talented musicians and vocalists.

The Mighty Diamonds themselves were no strangers to social commentary. Formed in Kingston in the early 1960s, they honed their craft performing at local sound system dances and recording singles for various labels. Their distinctive three-part harmony and thought-provoking lyrics quickly earned them a devoted following.

Impact and Legacy:

“The Right Thing To Do” remains a beloved classic among reggae enthusiasts. Its infectious groove, powerful message, and flawless vocal harmonies continue to inspire generations of listeners. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including reggae legends like Dennis Brown and Gregory Isaacs. It’s also featured in films and television shows, introducing reggae music to a wider audience.

Beyond its musical impact, “The Right Thing To Do” carries a timeless message about social responsibility and the power of unity. The song reminds us that even small acts of kindness and courage can make a difference in the world.

Exploring the Lyrics:

Let’s break down some of the key lyrics from “The Right Thing To Do”:

• “It’s the right thing to do” This simple yet powerful phrase serves as both the song’s title and its central theme. It emphasizes the importance of doing what is morally right, even if it’s difficult or unpopular.

• “Stand up for what you know is true.” This line encourages listeners to be honest with themselves and stand up for their beliefs, regardless of external pressure.

• “Don’t let them tell you what to think” This line speaks directly to the power of critical thinking and independent thought. It warns against blindly accepting what others tell us, urging us instead to question everything and form our own opinions.

• “Use your voice and make a link.” This line emphasizes the importance of using our voices to speak out against injustice and connect with others who share our values.

The Mighty Diamonds: A Legacy of Harmony:

Beyond their contribution to reggae history, The Mighty Diamonds are also recognized for their exceptional vocal harmonies. Their intricate interplay and distinctive timbre have earned them comparisons to other legendary vocal groups like The Temptations and Earth, Wind & Fire.

Lloyd “Judge” Ferguson

Fitzroy “Bunny” Simpson

Donald “Tabby” Shaw

Each member brought their unique voice and style to the group, resulting in a sound that was both powerful and soulful. Their ability to blend seamlessly together created an unforgettable musical experience that transcended generations.

Table: Notable Tracks by The Mighty Diamonds:

“The Right Thing To Do” is a testament to the enduring power of reggae music and its ability to inspire social change. Its message of hope, justice, and unity continues to resonate today, reminding us that we all have a role to play in making the world a better place. So crank up the volume, let the infectious groove take over, and embrace the message: it’s the right thing to do!