Smile

Groundation's song 'Smile' is a powerful anthem that delves into themes of resilience, resistance, and the enduring spirit of the oppressed. The lyrics are rich with cultural and spiritual references, particularly to Rastafarianism and the struggles faced by people of African descent. The repeated invocation of 'Jah'—a term for God in Rastafarian belief—sets a spiritual tone, suggesting that the strength to endure and resist comes from a higher power.

The song paints a vivid picture of people gathering on a hillside, a symbolic place of reflection and resistance. The hillside serves as a metaphor for a vantage point from which they can see the broader landscape of their struggles and triumphs. The act of 'smiling' in the face of adversity is a form of defiance, a way to maintain dignity and hope even when faced with oppression. The lyrics mention 'chanting' and 'whispering thoughts,' which are traditional forms of spiritual and communal expression in Rastafarian culture, further emphasizing the importance of unity and collective resilience.

The song also touches on historical and cultural memories, such as the reference to the ocean as a former home, likely alluding to the transatlantic slave trade and the forced displacement of African people. The colors 'red, gold, and green' are significant in Rastafarianism, symbolizing the blood of martyrs, wealth, and the land of Ethiopia, respectively. These colors represent a connection to heritage and a source of pride and strength. The lyrics also speak to the fall of 'Babylon,' a term used in Rastafarianism to describe oppressive systems and institutions. The song's message is clear: despite the suffering and challenges, the spirit of the people remains unbroken, and their resistance continues.