Reggae music, Rastafari, and revolutionary social work collide in this powerful live conversation with Hawaiian reggae artist Lion Fiyah, recorded at the NASW National Conference in Chicago. Hosted by Professor Ace with special guest MT, this episode is part of the Social Work Outside the Status Quo series — where we challenge the profession’s comfort with celebrity culture and amplify voices that speak truth, unity, and liberation.

We open by questioning the NASW’s controversial award to Ludacris, contrasting his violent, misogynistic lyrics with the uplifting, positive messages of reggae rooted in cultural resilience and Rastafarian values. Then we dive deep with Lion Fiyah into the responsibility of lyrics, the creative process behind Royal Vibes, and the role of music as a vehicle for cultural identity, anti-colonial consciousness, and liberation for all.

From Bob Marley’s legacy in Hawaiian reggae to navigating the modern music industry with integrity, this episode explores music’s power to heal, connect, and inspire social change. It’s a call for social workers, artists, and community leaders to align their work with the values they claim to uphold — because music is a tool for transformation and resistance.

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Keywords: reggae music, Lion Fiyah, Rastafari, revolutionary social work, NASW Conference, Royal Vibes, Bob Marley, Hawaiian reggae, conscious reggae, cultural resilience, positive lyrics, social justice music, anti-colonial music, music and liberation, music and social work, activist music, conscious lyrics, unity and reggae, cultural heritage, liberation movements, reggae interview, reggae podcast, Rastafarian culture.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Revolutionary Social Work Podcast (Alicia & Ace)

01:21 Ludacris and the NASW Award Controversy

05:24 Positive Lyrics and Social Work Values

10:57 Introducing Lion Fiyah’s Impact

11:38 Bob Marley’s Influence in Hawaiian Reggae

12:39 — Theme Song —

13:19 Welcoming Lion Fiyah & His Musical Journey

16:10 The Creative Process and Collaboration

20:19 Lyrics as Responsibility and Cultural Force

23:29 Rastafarian Influence and Personal Identity

26:40 The Role of Musicians in Shaping Public Consciousness

29:29 Breaking Down Royal Vibes and Its Message

34:56 Staying Grounded and Centered in Chaos

41:06 Symbols, Integrity, and Legacy in Music

49:40 Addressing Division Through Music

54:27 Artistic Growth and Adaptation

59:57 The Enduring Legacy of Reggae Music

01:02:19 Heritage, Authenticity, and Cultural Exchange

01:04:13 Identity, Liberation, and Shared Struggle

01:07:09 Music as Cultural Identity and Empowerment

01:10:06 Personal Vows, Spiritual Growth, and Reflection

01:13:09 Cross-Cultural Connections and Solidarity

01:16:16 Closing Reflections on Music and Liberation

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