Introduction
The album "You Can Get It If You Really Want" is a remarkable piece of work released in 1970 by the legendary Jamaican artist, Desmond Dekker. It captures the essence of Dekker's distinctive voice and irresistibly catchy tunes, that made him one of the pioneers of reggae and ska music. This album is still extremely concerned and celebrated today, testifying to the skill and timelessness of Dekker's music.
Background
Desmond Dekker, born in 1941 in Kingston, Jamaica, began his career as a vocalist in 1963 with the release of his first single "Honour Your Mother and Father". He at first got fame in the Jamaican music scene with his infectious ska and rocksteady tunes. In 1968, Dekker hit the worldwide music scene with "Israelites", which arrived of the charts in both Britain and the United States. It was the very first time a Jamaican act had actually attained such success, and Dekker ended up being the first global star of Jamaican music.
Album Overview
"You Can Get It If You Really Want" is a 12-track album with a total run time of 32 minutes. It contains a mix of reggae, rocksteady, and ska music designs. The album was launched on the Trojan label, which was known for its influential role in promoting Caribbean music in the UK. The album consists of a few of Dekker's most famous and well-loved tunes, such as "Perseverance", "You Can Get It If You Really Want", and "Pickney Gal".
Style and Lyrics
Throughout the album, Dekker touches on styles of hope, achievement, determination, and love. The lyrics in "You Can Get It If You Really Want", the album's title track, exemplify this theme, as the song motivates listeners to believe in themselves and strive towards their dreams regardless of barriers and obstacles. This message of hope and decision is aptly coupled with Dekker's energetic and uplifting beats.
Other songs on the album, such as "Peace of Mind" and "My Precious World (The Man)", delve into themes of love and individual contentment. Dekker's lyrics remain uncomplicated yet poetic, permitting listeners to deeply resonate with the emotions and messages communicated in the songs.
Musical Style
The flexible fusion of reggae, rocksteady, and ska displayed in "You Can Get It If You Really Want" showcases Dekker's immense talent and understanding of these Caribbean music designs. The album has an upbeat, energetic noise, characteristic of Dekker's unique style. Listeners can find influences from other significant artists of the time, such as Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff, while still appreciating Dekker's unique musical flair.
The smooth blending of brass instruments, rhythmic guitar, melodic basslines, and Dekker's emotional vocals develop a captivating noise with crossover appeal. The tracks on this album are understood for their transmittable hooks and tunes, making it difficult not to dance and sing along.
Tradition
"You Can Get It If You Really Want" remains a classic and quintessential example of the early 1970s reggae and ska scenes. It has achieved significant honor and continues to affect contemporary artists who value and obtain from the sounds created by Desmond Dekker. Dekker died in 2006, but his music lives on through albums like this and the numerous musicians he inspired. This album is a testament to the talent and withstanding impact of Desmond Dekker, a leader in the world of reggae and ska music.
Artist: Desmond Dekker
Desmond Dekker, a pioneer in Jamaican music. Explore his journey, from humble beginnings to international stardom, with iconic quotes.
More about Desmond Dekker