By Jivahnnah Thavala, Radio host and reggae ambassador
One of my all time favorite quotes about reggae music is from Ziggy Marley who said: “Reggae has a philosophy… It’s not just entertainment. There’s an idea behind it. A way of life behind the music which is a positive way of life and is a progressive way of life for better people…”
Reggae music has influenced societies throughout the world, contributed to development of movements and still has a major impact on people through positive advocacy on social issues.
Growing up, my dad usually had reggae music playing in our home, our family vehicle and at family bungs. He also had music CD’s. As far as I can recall, he had music from the greats – Lucky Dube, Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, UB40, Toots & The Maytals. My dad played it on his stereo.
Later, I understood why he listened to reggae.
“Reggae Music Speaks the Truth”
I guess my dad’s love for reggae influenced my love of reggae as I grew older. Reggae become now my favorite genre. As I gradually fell in love with the music, the lyrics, the sound the colors and the positive vibe.
Every t-shirt, cap, or beanie I bought or wanted buy had to have the red green and gold. As time passed, my family started to notice that I was becoming something of a reggae freak. So, at times, they’d buy reggae themed items and, in the afternoon, give them to me.
I also loved advocating on issues, so at that time, I felt like this was it! This is where my passion for positivity begins.
I got into radio. I was with HOT97FM that time. We had genre-based programs. The Rock Show, RNB, Local and reggae show.
Every genre you’d think of, we had it broadcast live during the weekends. Those features were directed at genre-based music lovers.
I wanted to host the reggae show. I eventually did.
I now host a reggae show at FM100 which plays four hours of reggae music from 6am-10am every Saturday morning.
I’ve been working as a broadcaster for a decade. I realize that radio is such a powerful medium. I use this platform to inform, educate, and entertain. Advocating on issues through the positivity of reggae music is not what I plan to do forever. But I am here to talk about issues affecting Papua New Guinea and the world.
It’s a great feeling to know that through radio, people are not just listening to good music, but they are also listening to an actual message in a particular reggae song.
Toots Hibbert said: “Reggae is a message of consolation; a message of salvation. The youth are going to the school and they have to listen to the words. The parents have to listen to the words. God has to listen to the words. So, we have to make it positive.”
It also brings me joy, when random people message me, thanking me for always giving off that positive vibe. Makes me realize I will keep doing what I am doing.
It is a developing genre with new artists realizing the value of music in society. As a Reggae ambassador I believe that aspiring artists or bands that plan to become influencers and ambassadors should sing about life, and not about things that won’t benefit society.
We need more artists who use their influence to advocate on issues.
For me, reggae music heals.
It unites, speaks truth of sharing love and happiness.
It makes the soul vibrate.
It is a voice of the people, of love and life, of peace and positive energy.
Reggae if music of the people. It is medication, meditation ,inspiration. All in all, Reggae Music is One Love.
