Verse 1:
- The song's protagonist encounters "the deputy" and "the sheriff" at their local barbershop and feels uneasy in their presence due to their oppressive behavior.
Chorus:
- In the lines "I say hey, man..." and "I shot the sheriff, but I swear it was in self-defense," the song's subject declares having shot the sheriff for self-preservation rather than intentional killing.
Verse 2:
- Provides additional details about the incident, describing a "posse" trying to capture the narrator. It raises questions about justice and authority.
Verse 3:
- The narrator further defends their actions, claiming they are misunderstood and labeled wrongly as an "outlaw." This verse highlights themes of discrimination and misjudgment.
Bridge:
- Expresses hope and a determination to continue resisting oppression: "Don't think me come to harm you / In any way or form."
Outro:
- Emphasizes the notion of justice, declaring, "Every man got a right to decide his own destiny" and "every man has a right to choose his own way." These lines challenge authority figures who assume unjust control over others.
Overall, "You Shot the Sheriff" examines themes of authority, oppression, freedom, and empowerment from an individual's perspective. This interpretation aligns with Bob Marley's frequent explorations of liberation and social transformation in his music.