Repertoire

Here are some of the pieces that we perform. We aim for an eclectic lineup that combines traditional African songs, African-inspired compositions by modern composers, and contemporary African pop.

Baba Yetu

Baba Yetu is the Swahili translation of the Lord's Prayer. It was put to music by Christopher Tin for the game Civilisation IV.

Safa Isizwe

A South African song of lamentation. It is used in the slave trade scene to express the woes of those who fell into the hands of ruthless slave dealers.

Malaika

A Swahili love song that serves as an outlet for the frustrated lover. It is a testament of the hardships faced by a lover limited by his poverty hence his inability to lavish his beloved with the finer things and more importantly, marry her.

No one like you

A love song from Nigeria by P-Squared.

E be like Say

A song by 2Face Idibia from Nigeria, talking about political deception and abuse of power (performed live with instruments).

African Queen

Another song by 2Face Idibia. As the name suggests, the song appreciates the African beauty in its entirety. It is also a proclamation of love by a man and his lover.

Woza Mfana

A South African chant. “Woza” means come here.

Shosholoza

A popular tune the comes from the mines of South Africa. It talks of the train that brings workers and supplies to the mines.

Gum Boots Dance

This is a traditional dance from South Africa which the miners used to perform to keep their spirits up.

Marketplace

A love song by South Africa's Hugh Masekela. The song is a man's description of a meeting with a woman at the marketplace (performed live with instruments).

Siyaya eJerusalema

A song of hope from South Africa. An allusion to the Israelite journey from Egypt to the promised land. “Norna kukude siyaya eJerusalema” means, “No matter how far it is, we are going to Jerusalem.”

One by one

A freedom movement song from South Africa. The song expresses resilience and pride. “Ibala lami. Elimnyama. Ndiya zidla ngalo” means, “The color of my skin, which is dark, I am proud of it.”

Bawo Thixo Somandla

A traditional South African song. It is actually a prayer sung by people in distress directed to God.

Pata Pata

A song originally written and performed by Mama Afrika, Miriam Makeba, Pata Pata is a song that celebrates the African verve and spirit. It was first sung in 1967 and is often associated with the older generation’s notion of reveling. “Pata Pata” means “Touch, touch” (performed live with instruments).

Karolina

This song was performed by a popular Congolese musician called Awilo Longomba. The song is usually accompanied by a “hip-shaking”dance.

Afirika

Afirika is a song by the renowned Angelique Kidjo. It is also a celebration of Africa and a profession of love for the continent and all it encompasses (performed live with instruments).