Negative reactions to Jamaica 50 song
Sadeke Brooks, Staff Reporter
Not only has there been a controversy from a political standpoint but many Jamaicans have expressed displeasure, at the Orville ‘Shaggy’ Burrell-produced ‘On A Mission’ song that is being used by the Jamaica 50 Secretariat, as part of their new marketing campaign.
The song, which premiered on Friday at 4:15 p.m. on most radio station, has spurred numerous comments from Jamaicans, some of whom believe the song isn’t representative of the Jamaican culture.
On A Mission features acts like Chevelle Franklin, Damian Marley, Beres Hammond, Romain Virgo, Tarrus Riley, Wayne Marshall, Tessanne Chin, Assassin, Tifa and Shaggy.
While aspect of dancehall can be heard in the song, techno and soca beats are also present.
Since its premiere, there have been discussions on the Internet.
“This JA 50 song is gonna have to grow on meh! I know a hit when I hear one, and this doesn’t sound like one #justsaying,” one person said on social networking website, Twitter.
Another person, who was more receptive of the song said, “Ja 50 song have a vibes still, mi like it, from wha mi hear so far Jr Gong and Tifa tek it still.”
There were even some persons who liked the song but not as an official Jamaica 50 song.
“Every time I listen that I’m on a Mission song, I think it’s great for clubs and sporting events for Ja50 but not a classic song,” the comment said.
On YouTube, persons were a lot more vocal and even angry about the song in some cases.
“Please don't try to brand Jamaica with Techno music. I thought Jamaica was all about reggae music…smh,” one person said.
Another comment was, “production doesn’t fit its purpose nor reflects the unlimited available musical talents, if you ask me.”
“Is this a joke? This is wicked prank. It's a scandal!!!! The cultural superstate of the world and this is what we produce? Sly n Robbie, Bobby Digital, Coxsone Dodd, please do something about this. Not even a live Reggae rhythm? Shame shame. Me can't believe. Techno mix? Get the hell outa here,” another person who viewed the video added.
While there were a few who liked the song, most persons said it doesn’t fit the roots and culture of Jamaica especially due to the absence of a reggae beat.
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**Reprinted with permission from the Gleaner Company**
