The Greatest African Song Ever is …
Dear African Music Lover,
Last week we discussed which African country produces the best songs. Thank you to everyone who joined the discussion.
Today, we want to decide which African song is the greatest.
Before You Vote, consider Miriam Makeba's "Pata Pata," an international sensation in the late 1960s, introducing millions worldwide to South African township sounds while subtly protesting apartheid.
Are you considering Fela Kuti's hypnotic "Zombie," which combined political rebellion with an irresistible groove, cementing Afrobeat as a revolutionary force?
Is Angélique Kidjo's "Wombo Lombo," a timeless piece with Yoruba lyrics, on your list? Or "The Way It Is" by Lucky Dube, who is dubbed as the shining star of African reggae?
More recently, songs like Youssou N'Dour's "7 Seconds" with Neneh Cherry bridged traditional Senegalese sounds with global pop sensibilities, or Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode's "Jerusalema," which kept the world grooving during the 2020 lockdown.
These selections and several other contenders may emerge on your list or other discussions.
Onto the heart of the matter: What truly makes a song "the greatest"? Its cultural impact? Artistic innovation? Commercial success? Political significance? Artist persona? Or perhaps simply emotional resonance?
Maybe none of these! It could just be that the song was released at the time we needed or wanted it most.
Nevertheless, based on your personal experience or criteria, what's your pick for the greatest African song ever? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your selection in the comments and tell us why it resonates with you.
Yours in African Music Always,
Librarian
African Music Library