The long-awaited release of 'Selassie is the Chapel' on digital platforms has sparked a wave of anticipation and intrigue. This iconic track, produced and written by Rastafarian high priest Mortimer Planno, showcases the mesmerizing vocals of Bob Marley and the soulful guitar work of Peter Tosh.
With its historical and cultural significance, recorded in 1968 at the prestigious Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation studio in Kingston, 'Selassie is the Chapel' holds a special place in the music industry. The involvement of JAD Records, the label responsible for introducing Marley to the world, adds an extra layer of importance to this release.
Moreover, the track pays tribute to Planno's influential role in shaping Marley's journey into Rastafarianism and commemorates Emperor Haile Selassie I's historic visit to Jamaica in 1966.
As the story behind 'Selassie is the Chapel' unfolds, the reader is left with a sense of curiosity, eager to discover the impact of this momentous event on Marley's artistic expression.
Key Takeaways
- 'Selassie is the Chapel' is a song written and produced by Mortimer Planno, a Rastafarian high priest, and features Bob Marley on lead vocals and Peter Tosh on guitar and harmony vocals.
- JAD Records, the first label to record Bob Marley, has released 'Selassie is the Chapel' on all digital platforms, marking their first release in 7 years.
- Mortimer Planno played a crucial role in shaping Marley's involvement in Rastafarianism and contributed to his understanding and embrace of the faith.
- The song 'Selassie is the Chapel' captures the significance of Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica in 1966, a historic event that was declared a public holiday and had a profound impact on the Jamaican people.
Release of 'Selassie Is the Chapel
The release of 'Selassie Is the Chapel' marks the long-awaited debut of this iconic Bob Marley single on digital platforms. Produced by Mortimer Planno, a Rastafarian high priest, the song holds significant cultural importance in the Rastafarian movement. Planno played a crucial role in shaping Marley's involvement in Rastafarianism and remained a spiritual figurehead in Jamaica.
'Selassie Is the Chapel' not only showcases Marley's talent but also incorporates lyrics from Sonny Til and the Orioles' song 'Crying in the Chapel', adding to its cultural significance. The release of this single on digital platforms allows for wider accessibility and reach, impacting the Rastafarian movement by spreading its message to a larger audience.
It is a testament to the enduring influence of Mortimer Planno and the importance of his contributions to Marley's understanding and embrace of Rastafarianism.
Background of 'Selassie Is the Chapel
Recorded in 1968 at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation studio in Kingston, 'Selassie Is the Chapel' is a significant song in Bob Marley's discography, featuring his lead vocals and Peter Tosh on guitar and harmony vocals.
The background of this song is closely tied to the significance of Mortimer Planno's role in Marley's life. Planno, a Rastafarian high priest, played a crucial role in shaping Marley's involvement in Rastafarianism. He was instrumental in Marley's understanding and embrace of the religion.
'Selassie is the Chapel' reflects the impact of Planno's teachings and the influence of Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica in 1966. This historic event, where Planno played a role in maintaining order, had a profound impact on Marley's career and spirituality, which is evident in the lyrics and themes of the song.
JAD Records and Bob Marley
What was the significance of JAD Records in Bob Marley's career?
JAD Records played a pivotal role in Bob Marley's career, leaving a lasting impact on reggae music and the music industry as a whole. Here is the significance of JAD Records in Bob Marley's career:
- First label to record Bob Marley: JAD Records was the first label to recognize Bob Marley's talent and give him the opportunity to record his music. This paved the way for his future success and allowed his unique sound to reach a wider audience.
- Released iconic songs: JAD Records released some of Bob Marley and The Wailers' most popular songs, including 'Stir It Up' and 'Guava Jelly.' These songs helped solidify Marley's status as a reggae legend and contributed to the growth of the genre.
- Legacy in the music industry: Although JAD Records folded in the early 1970s, its legacy lives on in the music industry. The label's support and promotion of Bob Marley helped establish him as a global icon and set the stage for the immense impact he would have on reggae music and popular culture.
Influence of Mortimer Planno
Mortimer Planno's significant role in shaping Bob Marley's involvement in Rastafarianism further highlights the profound influence he had on the reggae legend's spiritual journey. As a Rastafarian high priest, Planno played a crucial role in introducing Marley to the principles and beliefs of Rastafarianism. He contributed to Marley's understanding and embrace of the religion, which became a central theme in his music.
Planno's impact extended beyond Marley's personal journey, as he also had a significant influence on Jamaican society. Planno's role during Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica in 1966, where he helped maintain calm and order, showcased his leadership and spiritual guidance. His presence and teachings reverberated throughout the country, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural and religious landscape of Jamaica.
Emperor Haile Selassie I's Visit to Jamaica
Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica in 1966 marked a significant moment in the country's history and had a profound impact on its cultural and religious landscape. The visit was eagerly anticipated by thousands of Jamaicans, who gathered at the airport to witness the Emperor's arrival. The sight of the Jamaican crowd, filled with excitement and anticipation, created a unique and electric atmosphere.
The visit itself was of great significance, as it was declared a public holiday in honor of the Emperor. Mortimer Planno, a Rastafarian high priest, played a crucial role during the visit by calming the chaotic crowd and allowing the Emperor to pass. This historic event left an indelible mark on Jamaica's collective consciousness, and it is captured beautifully in Bob Marley's song 'Selassie is the Chapel'.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Did Mortimer Planno Influence Bob Marley's Understanding of Rastafarianism?
Mortimer Planno played a significant role in influencing Bob Marley's understanding of Rastafarianism. Planno's role in maintaining calm during Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica also contributed to Marley's spiritual journey.
What Other Songs Did JAD Records Release by Bob Marley and the Wailers?
JAD Records, the first label to record Bob Marley, released songs like 'Stir It Up' and 'Guava Jelly'. These releases, along with Mortimer Planno's influence and Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit, contributed to Marley's understanding of Rastafarianism.
Why Did JAD Records Fold in the Early 1970s?
JAD Records folded in the early 1970s due to financial difficulties and a lack of commercial success. Mortimer Planno played a significant role in shaping Bob Marley's beliefs, contributing to his understanding and embrace of Rastafarianism.
How Did Mortimer Planno Help Maintain Calm During Emperor Haile Selassie I's Visit to Jamaica?
Mortimer Planno, a Rastafarian high priest, played a crucial role in promoting peace during Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica in 1966. His calm intervention helped maintain order and allowed the Emperor to pass safely.
What Other Events Occurred During Emperor Haile Selassie I's Visit to Jamaica in 1966?
During Emperor Haile Selassie I's visit to Jamaica in 1966, thousands of Jamaicans gathered at the airport to witness his arrival, which was declared a public holiday. The Jamaican reaction and the significance of the visit created a unique atmosphere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the release of 'Selassie is the Chapel' on digital platforms marks a significant moment in the music industry. It pays homage to Mortimer Planno's influential role in shaping Bob Marley's journey into Rastafarianism and commemorates Emperor Haile Selassie I's historic visit to Jamaica.
This iconic track captures the essence of the crowd's excitement and the profound impact it had on Marley's artistic expression. Its availability on digital platforms allows for wider accessibility and recognition of its historical and cultural significance.