Heartland Reggae

Heartland Reggae was released in 1983 and focuses on Jamaica during the years of 1977-1978.  This was a difficult period of time, both politically and socially in Jamaican history, with the JLP and PNP political parties competing for favour, and with a large amount of the population expressing their dissatisfaction with the harsh living conditions they faced. 

It was also a time where roots reggae was an integral part of the movement to uplift the masses, and in this period many classic artists created some of the best and most powerful roots music  in existence today. 

This movie is mostly made up of concert footage and performances that took place during these years.  Standout artists and tracks include; U-Roy - Natty Don't Fear, Dennis Brown - Whip Them Jah, Judy Mowatt - Black Woman, Althea and Donna - Uptown Top Ranking, Peter Tosh - Legalise It and Jacob Miller - Peace Treaty.   

The movie also focuses, and includes much footage on Bob Marley and highlights the central role he played in raising political awareness in JA.  It includes amazing footage of the One Love Peace Concert, which took place on April 22 1978, in which Marley united the leaders of the two political parties, Michael Manley and Edward Seaga, on stage - a historic moment in Jamaican history, which was very powerful to see.  The movie then states the ironic fact that the two leaders did not meet again in public and shake hands until three years later - at Marley's funeral.   

Other tracks performed live at the Peace Concert by Bob Marley and the I-Threes include War, Natty Dread, Jamming, Trenchtown Rock and Get Up Stand Up.    

A well recommended movie, showing historical footage from this important and influential period in Jamaican history.

 

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