While the reggae version is the original, the 1978 disco cover by Boney M. became a massive international hit and is one of the best-selling singles of all time in the UK.

The song features prominently in the 1972 cult classic film The Harder They Come , which helped introduce reggae music to a global audience.

In the original Rastafarian context, "Babylon" represents any oppressive or unjust governmental system.

The section beginning with "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart" is taken from the end of this psalm. Key Historical & Musical Features