Halei Selassi

Los Pericos' song 'Halei Selassi' is a powerful anthem that speaks to the African diaspora's longing for unity and a return to their roots. The lyrics emphasize the historical and cultural significance of Haile Selassie, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, who is revered in Rastafarian culture as a symbol of black pride and resistance against oppression. The repeated mention of 'the first black king' being crowned in Ethiopia serves as a reminder of a proud heritage and a call to reconnect with it.

The song begins with a yearning to return to Africa, highlighting the sense of displacement felt by those who were taken from their homeland. The line 'They took us from Africa with no questions' poignantly captures the brutal history of the transatlantic slave trade. Despite the geographical and cultural distances, the song underscores a shared identity and solidarity among black people, regardless of where they come from. This unity is further emphasized by the chorus, which calls for all to be 'united now, returning home.'

'Halei Selassi' is not just a song about physical return but also a spiritual and cultural reconnection. By invoking Haile Selassie, Los Pericos tap into a rich vein of African and Rastafarian history, celebrating a figure who symbolizes resistance, dignity, and the enduring spirit of the African people. The song's repetitive structure and chant-like quality give it a meditative and rallying feel, making it both a tribute and a call to action for listeners to embrace their heritage and stand together in unity.