i didn't properly know what Ghost Dance was about, yet i've loved the delicate musicality of this track for DECADES ... so I looked it up at last ... and with a better understanding, so that tears soon came to my eyes ... prince buster's charm and delicacy as he addresses the ghosts of lost friends are in complete contrast to the roaring swashbuckling humour of his dance hall songs ... instead he shows his abiding sense of brotherhood ... how badly we miss our friends, and how badly we come to miss even those we never properly knew ... in my view it is as when old paintings fade and the colours bleach out, and then their varnish darkens ... i suppose these momentary tears might wash some of those dusty memories clean and bright again ... possibly, maybe ?
Ghost Dance lyrics with English Translations
Dear Keithus, my friend, good dayHoping you're keeping the best of health
How is the music down there in bone yard?I hear that Busby have a sound systemAnd that Nyah Keith is disc-jockeyBut them can't get no Red Stripe beerFi sell in the dance at night
Tell Zacky, the High PriestWho used to lead the toughestOne who could go, baah toughestGive him my regardsTell him Prince Buster says hello
Baah, toughest
And Keith, if you should see RashiYou know Rashi from Back'o'Wall?Give him my regards
And if you should see, the two brothersStinky Pommells and Herbman, we grew togetherTell them Prince Buster says, so long,Sorry they had to go so soon
Since music be the food of love, I'll forever sing onAnd Forresters Hall, we'll soon get back on shape
Baah, toughest
Ghost danceGhost dance
Baah, toughest
