Ras Ash 1st calls for peace

Earlier this year, Rastafarian artiste Ras Ash 1st released the song Esau and Jacob, which criticised global conflicts and war.

His song has taken on even more relevance in the wake of the mushrooming conflict in the Middle East.

"The war in the Middle East is a never-ending conflict, from the early days of the Bible. From the time of Esau and Jacob, people have waged wars in that region, and for the good of the world this must end," said Ras Ash 1st.

At least 10,022 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 7. More than 1,400 people have been killed in Hamas' attack on Israel.

"These wars are wars of empire. Obedience to oppression is psychological slavery. Abraham was a coloniser, his sons, his offspring, Esau and Jacob, continued to colonise and enslave until their offspring too were enslaved. How will thy people be free or be at peace when the mouth of the oppressor speaks for us?" Ras Ash 1st asked.

The reggae artiste is well known for spreading his philosophy of unity through music beyond the borders of his beloved August Town, St Andrew community.

Last year, he produced a six-track EP, 1 August Town Volume 5, which features collaborations with various artistes from inner-city communities across the Corporate Area.

Given the good response to Esau and Jacob, Ras Ash 1st plans to ramp up promotion with a lyric video.

"The message of peace needs to go out there. The earth doesn't belong to anyone, we are merely passing through. But they spill blood into the earth to which they will eventually return. These are needless conflicts," he said.