Crucial

Nasio Fontaine's song 'Crucial' is a powerful and urgent commentary on the state of the world, particularly from a Rastafarian perspective. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world in turmoil, with 'raging out of control' and 'world on fire' setting the stage for a narrative filled with chaos and destruction. Fontaine's use of the term 'Babylon' is significant, as it is a common Rastafarian symbol for oppressive systems and corrupt societies. The repeated assertion that 'things a go crucial' underscores the severity of the situation, suggesting that the world is on the brink of a critical and dangerous turning point.

The song delves into various signs of this impending crisis, such as 'world food shortage and mass starvation,' 'crime and violence,' and 'disease and pestilence.' These are not just random calamities but are presented as interconnected symptoms of a deeper, systemic problem. Fontaine's lyrics also reflect a sense of inevitability, with lines like 'Rasta know it a go get worse, so much worse' and 'it gonna get worse before it gets better.' This fatalistic outlook is tempered by a spiritual dimension, as the song repeatedly mentions 'HIS MAJESTY getting nearer,' referring to the Rastafarian belief in the return of Haile Selassie I, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, as a messianic figure.

The song's chorus, with its rhythmic repetition of 'crucial, crucial,' serves as both a warning and a call to awareness. It emphasizes the urgency of the message and the need for listeners to recognize the signs of the times. Fontaine's delivery, marked by a blend of reggae rhythms and impassioned vocals, adds to the song's compelling nature. 'Crucial' is not just a song but a prophetic statement, urging people to wake up to the realities of their world and prepare for the challenges ahead.