Young Girl
Don Carlos
The Secret Love of a Young Girl for a Dreadlocked Man
The song "Young Girl" by Don Carlos is a reggae ballad that tells the story of a young girl's secret love for a man with dreadlocks. The lyrics convey a sense of forbidden love, as the girl is not able to share her feelings with her parents, who would disapprove of the relationship. The repeated lines about the girl's love for the 'natty dread' or 'natty dreadlocks' emphasize the depth of her affection and the cultural significance of dreadlocks within the Rastafarian movement, which Don Carlos is associated with.
The song also highlights the girl's loyalty and commitment to her love interest. Despite the attention she receives from other boys, as indicated by the 'psss psss psss' sounds when she walks down the street, she remains uninterested in them because of her love for the man with dreadlocks. This aspect of the song celebrates the girl's fidelity and the idea that true love is not swayed by external temptations.
The narrative of the song is simple yet powerful, capturing the essence of young love that is both passionate and clandestine. The cultural context of the song is important, as dreadlocks are a symbol of the Rastafarian lifestyle, which often includes values such as love, peace, and resistance against oppression. Don Carlos, being a prominent figure in the roots reggae scene, often infuses his music with themes that reflect his Rastafarian beliefs.