“Lucky Dube – Crazy World” Lyrics and Meaning
“Lucky Dube – Crazy World” is a popular reggae song by the late South African musician Lucky Dube. The song was released in 1989 as part of his album “Prisoner” and gained international recognition for its powerful lyrics that shed light on the social and political issues faced by people in an unjust world. Here is an article that delves into the lyrics and meaning of “Lucky Dube – Crazy World.”
Verse 1:
So far so good, we still livin’ today But we don’t know what tomorrow brings In this crazy world, people dying like flies Every time you wake up, another mama cries
The first verse of the song highlights the uncertain and unpredictable nature of life. Lucky Dube acknowledges that despite being alive today, there is no guarantee of what tomorrow holds. He then brings attention to the harsh reality of the world, where people are dying in large numbers due to various reasons such as violence, poverty, and injustice. The mention of mothers crying reflects the pain and suffering of losing loved ones.
Chorus:
And if you live in a glasshouse Don’t throw stones And if you can’t take blows, brother Don’t throw blows
The chorus serves as a cautionary message about not being judgmental or resorting to violence. The metaphor of living in a glasshouse represents vulnerability and being mindful of one’s own actions before criticizing others. Lucky Dube advises against initiating violence if one cannot handle the repercussions, emphasizing the need for peaceful and responsible behavior.
Verse 2:
We’ve been talkin’ ’bout peace But it seems like we ain’t makin’ progress If I can’t go to church ‘Cause I’m scared of the other man
In the second verse, Lucky Dube expresses his frustration with the lack of progress towards achieving peace in the world. He highlights the sad reality where even places of worship, which are meant to be sanctuaries, can be a source of fear and danger due to the actions of others. This line reflects the impact of violence and intolerance on individuals and communities.
Chorus:
And if you live in a glasshouse Don’t throw stones And if you can’t take blows, brother Don’t throw blows
The chorus is repeated, reiterating the importance of being mindful of one’s actions and treating others with respect and nonviolence.
Verse 3:
So many people in the world Living in poverty While we’re drivin’ Mercedes Benz Taking our friends out for fun
In the third verse, Lucky Dube highlights the stark contrast between the privileged and the underprivileged in society. He points out the inequality and disparity where some people are living in luxury and excess, while others are struggling in poverty. The mention of driving Mercedes Benz and indulging in leisure activities with friends serves as a critique of the stark wealth gap and the insensitive behavior of those who are better off.
Chorus:
And if you live in a glasshouse Don’t throw stones And if you can’t take blows, brother Don’t throw blows
The chorus is repeated once again, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and responsible actions.
Outro:
In this crazy, crazy world In this crazy, crazy world In this crazy, crazy world In this crazy, crazy world
The outro of the song repeats the phrase “In this crazy, crazy world,” underscoring the chaotic and unjust nature of the world as depicted in the song.
In summary, “Lucky Dube – Crazy World” is a powerful reggae song that addresses social and political issues such as violence, poverty, inequality, and intolerance. The lyrics highlight the uncertainties of life, the need
Read Full Lyrics
So far so good we still living today
But we don’t know what tomorrow brings
In this crazy world people dying like flies every day
You read about it in the news but you don’t believe it
You’ll only know about it
When the man in the long dark coat
Knocks on your door
‘Cause you’re his next victim
As you are living in (living in) living in, (living in) this crazy world
I tell you we are living in (living in) we’re living in (living in) this crazy world
We are living in (living in) are living in (living in) this crazy world
Tell you we’re living in (living in) living in (living in) this crazy world
Leaders starting wars anytime they want
Some for their rights, some for fun and then their own glory (eh eh eh)
Letting people die for the wrong that they do
Oh it’s painful
Come on now little boy
Say your prayers before you sleep
Little boy went down on his knees
And he said
“Oh Lord, now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
And if I die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take”
‘Cause he’s living in this crazy world
Oh Lord
I’ma born living in (living in) I’m living in (living in) this crazy world
I’ma born living in (living in) I’m living in (living in) this crazy world
I tell you imabon living in (living in)
I’m living in (living in) this crazy world
I, I am a living in (living in) living in (living in) this crazy world
Yeah I’ma born living in (living in) I am a living in (living in) this crazy world
I’ma born living in (living in) I’m living in (living in) this crazy world
I, I am a living in (living in) living in (living in) this crazy world