Get Them Soft

Culture's song "Get Them Soft" is a powerful commentary on the destructive effects of cocaine addiction. The lyrics, delivered with a sense of urgency and concern, reflect the Rastafarian perspective on the dangers of drug abuse. The repeated refrain, "The cocaine ah get them off, get them soft," underscores the numbing and debilitating impact of cocaine on individuals and their communities. The term "soft" here metaphorically represents the weakening of both physical and moral strength, as users become less responsible and more disconnected from their duties and values.

The song paints vivid pictures of the consequences of cocaine use. It describes how individuals neglect their personal hygiene and responsibilities, symbolized by unwashed clothes and dirty feet. The lyrics also highlight the broader social implications, such as the loss of ambition and the erosion of family values. The mention of a mother working hard to send her child to school, only for the child to fall into drug use, emphasizes the heartbreak and disappointment felt by families. The song also touches on the economic impact, with references to selling off valuable possessions and resorting to begging.

Culture, a renowned reggae band, uses this song to deliver a cautionary message. The Rastafarian ethos, which promotes natural living and spiritual awareness, is starkly contrasted with the artificial and destructive nature of cocaine. The song serves as a call to action, urging listeners to heed the wisdom of the Rastaman and avoid the pitfalls of drug addiction. It is a poignant reminder of the importance of maintaining one's integrity and the devastating consequences that can arise from straying off the righteous path.