Love Is The Choice

Alborosie's song "Love Is The Choice" is a powerful anthem that intertwines themes of resistance, spirituality, and the transformative power of love. The song opens with a tribute to King Selassie I, a significant figure in Rastafarian culture, setting the tone for a message deeply rooted in spiritual and cultural identity. Alborosie emphasizes that neither violence nor negative speech can intimidate or sway him, as he draws strength from his faith and the wisdom of King Selassie I. This resilience is a call to rise above oppression and injustice, symbolized by the metaphorical 'Babylon,' representing corrupt systems and societal ills.

The chorus, with its repetitive and emphatic declaration that "love is the choice," serves as the song's central thesis. Alborosie argues that love and joy are invaluable and cannot be bought, urging listeners to embrace these virtues as a form of resistance and empowerment. This message is particularly poignant in the context of the struggles faced by marginalized communities, as love becomes a revolutionary act against the forces of oppression and violence.

In the second verse, Alborosie addresses the harsh realities faced by the youth in Jamaica, referred to as 'Jamdown.' He critiques the systemic pressures and broken promises that lead to violence and suffering in the ghettos. The imagery of 'blue suit and ?? against sneakers and jeans' paints a vivid picture of the conflict between authority figures and the youth, highlighting the socio-economic divide and the resulting 'bloody scene.'

The final verse continues this theme of resilience and defiance. Alborosie speaks to the ongoing struggles and the need to stand firm even when faced with adversity. The metaphor of 'Babylon building walls' suggests the continuous efforts of oppressive systems to divide and control, yet the song's refrain reminds us that love remains the ultimate choice and source of strength. Through this powerful message, Alborosie not only critiques societal injustices but also offers a hopeful vision of love as a transformative and unifying force.