100 Songs of Summer #86 “Israelites” by Desmond Dekker

Finally, we add a little reggae to our 100 Songs of Summer countdown. Don’t worry, Bob is on his way.

Hamptons 100 Songs of Summer #86

“Israelites” by Desmond Dekker

Few can understand the words to Desmond Dekker’s biggest hit, but “Israelites” was still the first reggae song to reach number one in the United Kingdom, and the second to land in the top 10 here in the U.S. Released in October 1968, this catchy tune is made for chilling out during the summer season.

The lyrics aren’t exactly about being fancy free, but the groove is just right for the beach, the road or pretty much anywhere there’s sand and summer sun.

Get up in the morning, slaving for bread, sir,
So that every mouth can be fed.
Poor me, the Israelite. Aah.