Each year as Emancipation Day, August 1, comes around, singer Jah Ranks begins to reflect on the struggles of his foreparents in the fight for freedom that came on August 1, 1834.

According to history, hundreds of Africans were removed from their homes to work as slaves on plantations in the West Indies.

Many died because of the long and hazardous journey through the Middle Passage, some committed suicide by drowning or starving themselves.

Resistance came through various means, including the burning of estates, while anti-slavery sentiments flourished through literature with powerful voices calling for an end to a wicked system.

This led to August 1, 1834, when slavery was abolished. However, it was argued that an apprenticeship system was necessary, which was a period leading them into full freedom.

Jah Ranks recalls that his song, ‘Hanging On The Gallows’ began to create long before it was recorded at Anchor Recording Studios in Kingston, in 2023.

“The horrific years of slavery, including those who have given their lives, such as Samuel Sharpe and Paul Bogle – both National Heroes – should never be forgotten. So, in doing this song, thousands will see the significance of Emancipation Day.”

“We must record and celebrate those events which have helped to shape our culture.”

Lines from the chorus read:
“Dead body hanging, hanging on the Gallows
Memba St.Thomas?
Dead body hanging
Hanging on the gallows in St. Thomas…”

Jah Ranks reveals, “I began doing music when I was about age 14. It was a Christian school that gave me the recognition as I began performing at church concerts in Manchester where I was born.”

“I left Manchester at age 21 to Glendevon, St. James, where I am living up to this time.”

He recorded his first single, ‘Home Sweet Home’, at Anchor Recording Studios. Others include ‘The Highest Being’ and ‘Proud of Creation’.

Jah Ranks has four albums to his credit: ‘ABC 123’, ‘Positive’, ‘Hands Ina Di Lion Mouth’, and ‘The Highest Being’.

He has performed on the Emancipation Show, Sam Sharpe Square, Coral Gardens Benevolent Show, and Haile Selassie’s Birthday Show.

His latest project is preparing to shoot the ‘Hanging On The Gallows’ music video.

(Photo contributed)