Well Fed Slave / Hungry Free Man
Lucky Dube · Other Songs - Lucky Dube
Lucky Dube
Look in the eyes of the
Homeless man
Tell me what you see
In the eyes of a jobless man
Tell me what you see
What about the eyes
Of a prisoner
What do you see
Now you' ve seen it all
It is time to make up your mind
Don' t try to hide it
'Cause I can see it all
In your face yeah
It is the same questions
That I ask myself every time
To be or not to be
Chorus: (x3)
Do you wanna be
A well fed slave or a hungry free man
What is the point in being free
When you can' t get no job
What is the point in being free
When you can' t get food
What is the point in going out to work
When others can get for free
What is the point in being free
When you don' t have no home
Now you' ve heard it all
It is time to make up
Your own mind
To be or not to be
Oh ho ho ho
Chorus:
Do you wanna be
A well fed slave or a hungry free man
till fade
Well Fed Slave / Hungry Free Man
Lucky Dube was a towering figure in South African reggae, known for blending traditional roots sounds with contemporary social commentary. This track exemplifies his ability to address complex political and economic realities through his distinctive vocal delivery. The song explores the paradoxical nature of freedom and security, questioning the true cost of liberty versus the comfort of subservience. Dube's work often reflected the struggles of his homeland, utilizing the reggae genre to amplify messages of resistance and human rights. His discography remains a vital record of the era, capturing the spirit of a nation in transition. This recording stands as a testament to his lyrical depth and his enduring influence on the African music scene, offering listeners a profound meditation on the choices between material comfort and spiritual autonomy.