Prison Oval Rock

Barrington Levy · 20th Century Masters [2006]

Oooh, yeah

Oooh, yeah

What a cool an' deadly



Some call it Spanish Town, ah' Prison Oval Rock (2x)

Oooh, yeah (2x)

What a cool an' deadly



The people are skanking,

while the daughters dem whining,

The rude boys dem creepin'

Oooh, yeah

What a cool an' deadly



Hand inna di air like ah' Jockey fashion,

Cock out yuh batty like ah' water pumpy

Wine slowly that ah' cool an' deadly

Move lively so ah' husband can't see



Some call it Spanish Town, but ah' Prison Oval Rock (2x)

Oooh, yeah (2x)

What ah' cool an' deadly



The wardens are watching

while the prisoners are dancing

when they hear the music playing

Hand inna di air like a Jockey fashion

Move slowly dat ah' cool an' deadly

Cock out batty like ah' water pumpy

Move lively so ah' husband can't see

Oooh, yeah (2x)

What ah' cool an' deadly



Some call it Spanish Town, but ah' Prison Oval Rock (2x)

The prisoners are skanking

The wardens are watching

some try to escape

when they hear the music playing



Some call it Spanish Town, but ah' Prison Oval Rock (2x)

Ooooh, yeah (2x)

What ah' cool an' deadly

Hand inna di air like ah' Jockey fashion

Cock out batty like ah' water pumpy

Wine slowly dat ah' cool an' deadly

Move lively so ah' husband can't see



Some call it Spanish Town, but ah' Prison Oval Rock (2x)

Ooooh, yeah (2x)

What ah' cool an' deadly

Prison Oval Rock

Barrington Levy's 'Prison Oval Rock' stands as a defining track from his 2006 compilation, '20th Century Masters,' showcasing his signature blend of reggae and dancehall rhythms. The song captures the gritty atmosphere of urban life through its driving beat and Levy's characteristic vocal delivery, which often blends melodic sensibility with rhythmic assertiveness. Released during a period where Levy solidified his status as a leading figure in Caribbean music, the recording reflects the genre's evolution in the mid-2000s. While the track does not explicitly reference specific political figures, it resonates with themes of confinement and resilience common in his broader discography. The song serves as a testament to Levy's ability to craft anthems that address social realities while maintaining the infectious energy that made him a staple in dance halls and clubs worldwide.