Not King James Version
Steel Pulse · Steel Pulse: Ultimate Collection [2000]
A dis ya version
A no King James version
Cause out of Africa
Came the Garden of Eden
Hidden from me I was never told
Ancient prophets black and gold
Like Daniel, King David and Abraham
Israel were all black men
I don't wanna lose you
Japhet tried this best to erase
The godly parts we played
I say he came and took
And never mention in his book...so
CHORUS:
A diss ya version
A no king james version
Cause out of Africa
Came the Garden of Eden
In Esau's chater of history
So little mention of you and me
We rulers of kingdoms and dynasties
Explored this earth for Centuries
I don't wanna lose ya
Phoenicians, Egyptians and the Moors
Built civilisation, that's for sure
Creators of the alphabet
while the West iliterate.. yeah
CHORUS:
A diss ya version
A no king James version
Cause out of Africa
Came the Garden of Eden
Africa heritage
I don't wanna lose ya
Oh, no
Slavery came and took its toll
In the name of John Bull Dog
Said we turn our backs on God
Lost the powers that we had
Now our backs against the wall
Ask ourselves aboutthe fall
Rise rise rise
Hold on to your culture
CHORUS:
A diss ya version
A no king James version
Cause out of Africa
Came the Garden Of Eden
I don't wanna lose ya
I don't wanna lose ya
Never let the fool you
Not King James Version
Steel Pulse's "Not King James Version" stands as a defining track within the reggae and roots reggae canon, reflecting the group's commitment to political consciousness and social justice. Released on their 2000 compilation, the song embodies the band's signature blend of traditional Jamaican rhythms with a sharp, contemporary edge. The lyrics, delivered with characteristic vocal intensity, critique the commodification of religious texts and the appropriation of spiritual symbols by secular powers. This recording exemplifies the band's broader discography, which frequently addresses themes of oppression, community, and resistance. As a staple of their live performances and studio output, the track remains a powerful testament to the enduring relevance of reggae's message in addressing global inequality.

