Police In Helicopter

John Holt's song "Police In Helicopter" is a powerful protest anthem that addresses the ongoing conflict between law enforcement and the Rastafarian community over the cultivation and use of marijuana. The song vividly describes the aggressive measures taken by the police, such as using helicopters to search for marijuana and burning the crops they find. This imagery highlights the extent of the crackdown and the lengths to which authorities are willing to go to enforce anti-marijuana laws.

The repeated refrain, "If you continue to burn up the herbs, we gonna burn down the cane fields," serves as a bold declaration of resistance. Holt is essentially warning the authorities that their actions will not go unchallenged. The burning of cane fields symbolizes a form of economic retaliation, as sugar cane is a significant crop in many Caribbean countries. This threat underscores the desperation and determination of those who feel oppressed and marginalized by the government's policies.

Holt also makes a point to emphasize that the Rastafarian community does not interfere with other agricultural activities, such as the cultivation of bananas, corn, and pimento. This line serves to highlight the perceived injustice of the authorities' focus on marijuana, suggesting that the community is being unfairly targeted. The song, therefore, becomes a broader commentary on the struggle for autonomy and respect for cultural practices, making it a resonant piece of social and political commentary.