Peter Tosh, the firebrand frontman of The Wailers, wasn't known for mincing words. After leaving the legendary reggae group, his solo career became a platform for social commentary and unapologetic advocacy. "Whatcha Gonna Do," a track from his 1976 album "Legalize It," is a prime example.
The song opens with a desperate plea: "Mama, mama, dem hold papa/Say they charge him fe' smoke ganja." (Mama, mama, they arrested papa/They say they charge him for smoking ganja). This sets the stage for a scenario of systemic oppression. The father is arrested for marijuana possession, and the narrator, likely the child, questions the future.
The chorus, "Whatcha gonna do now?" is a repeated refrain, hammering home the feeling of helplessness in the face of injustice. This isn't just a personal story; it's a call to action for a community under pressure.
The second verse expands the situation: "Next door neighbor, dem hold your son/They say they find him with one gun." (The police arrested your son next door/They say they found him with a gun). Gun violence and marijuana possession are intertwined, highlighting the struggles faced by many. The dread judge the father faces adds another layer of hopelessness - the system seems rigged against them.
"Whatcha Gonna Do" isn't a song about resignation. The repeated question is a challenge. It forces the listener to confront the problems and consider their response. Musically, the song is driven by a steady ska beat, punctuated by Tosh's impassioned vocals. It's a deceptively simple song that carries a powerful message.
"Whatcha Gonna Do" remains relevant today. Social injustice, gun violence, and the criminalization of marijuana are issues that continue to plague many communities. Peter Tosh's song serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking out and fighting for change. It asks the listener a crucial question: In the face of oppression, what will you do?