KINGSTON, Jamaica — On August 27, 1975, news broke that Ethiopia’s Emperor Haile Selassie I had died in that country. His demise came one year after he was overthrown by the military in the East African country, and inspired Bob Marley to write and record the defiant Jah Live.
Fifty years later, singer Binghi Blaze is saluting the Emperor with Hail King Selassie, a song produced by the Chris Knight Music Group. It was released on August 15.
“Naturally, as a Rasta chanta, we have to livicate a tune to honour the Emperor and the empresses, so Rasta inspire it,” said Binghi Blaze.
Selassie I is pivotal to the Rastafarian movement. Emperor in his country from 1930 to 1974, he was revered for successfully leading his country in conflict against the forces of Italian Fascist Benito Mussolini.
In April, 1966, Selassie I visited Jamaica on a state visit that drew large crowds wherever he went.
The Manchester-born Binghi Blaze recalls his introduction to Selassie I and his teachings.
“We heard about the king from the elder Rasta dem from youth days before we start reading, so there was always interest in learning about such one. And when we read up on him, we came to the realisation of the mighty king, who he was, what he represented, and it was a life-changing experience,” he said.
Born Gary Williams, Binghi Blaze has been recording music for over 15 years. His previous songs include the anti-war People of The World and Rastamance.
— Howard Campbell
