Blast From the Past
In an ever-changing society, one thing remains constant, the influence and power of music. Music is a magical tool, which connects people regardless of race, class, gender, status and even sex. Throughout history, consumers have been exposed to a variety of genres, songs, sounds, and vibes. The world has been blessed with countless songs that inspired generations, as well as an abundance of music that remains nostalgic. This playlist has been curated to celebrate songs within the African Diaspora, which will forever remain in our hearts, mind, and soul. The category is “Editors Pick.”
Music is a constant in my everyday life. From the time I wake up to the time I fall asleep, I live for harmonies and melodies. This week, I have decided to share my top retro songs which have inspired me throughout the year. These songs shape my love for music and exposed me to new ideas and themes. Here is my top songs from some of my favorite artists.
Lagbaja – ‘Konko below’
This is one of my personal favourites. Classified under the genre Afrobeat jazz, Konko below carries an infectious melody and rhythm that will leave any listener dancing. Are you ready to meet down under?
Meiway- ‘Apollo 95’
Anytime I feel down, Apollo 95 is one of my go-to songs to build up momentum. If you are looking for a melodious tune that will keep you on your feet, is the tune for you. This tune will definitely transport you back to the ’90s.
Meiway – ‘Nanan’
For some strange reason, I have an emotional connection to this particular song. “Nanan” is an emotional tribute song written in honour of the death of the 1st President of Ivory Coast, His Excellency Félix Houphouët Boigny. In this tribute, Meiway asks his people to dry their tears because a King (Nanan) never dies.
Daddy Lumba – ‘Harry’ (Mensei Da)
One of my favourite Daddy Lumba songs, Mensei Da is a song that will motivate you and inspire you to persevere through anything you go through. This song gives me hope and just pushes me to strive for more.
Kojo Antwi- ‘Brebre Anowa’
Brebre Anowa is a heart-felt song-filled of hope and desire. Featured on the album “To Mother Afrika,” Brebre Anowa is a nostalgic song, which will have you appreciating the individuals in your life.
Odasani (Eni Yen Enne)
Odasani is thought proven song filled with deep lyrics that will have you thinking about your impact on society and the importance of love and harmony. Every time I hear this song, I think about the way I can improve myself and the people around me.
Miriam Makeba – ‘Akana Nkomo’
Miriam Makeba, nicknamed Mama Africa, was a South African singer, songwriter, and actress. A multitalented musician Miriam Makeba bless consumers with classic such as You Can Call Me Al, Pata Pata, Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes, and Malaika. Featured today, is her song Akana Nkomo. Akana Nkomo is an Afro-jazz tune that talks about marriage and understanding a woman’s worth. I fell in love with Makeba’s delivery of this song.
Ebo Taylor- ‘Mumudey Mumudey’
Mumudey Mumudey is a recent release of Taylor’s 2018 album entitled “Yen Ara”. Mumudey Mumudey is a vibrant song that is bound to make you dance and bust a move.
This is definitely another one of my personal favourites.
Nat-Brew – ‘Baawo’
One of my favourite tunes from Nat Brew, Baawo is all about Jama type vibes. This fun song is will get you dancing and busting a move. This song simply promotes the idea of hard work. This song charges me up and elevates my mood.
Fela Kuti – ‘Teacher Don’t Teach Me Nonsense’ (TDTMN)
Is described by Fela as his explanation as to why Africa is underdeveloped, “TDTMN” is a thought-provoking song which forces listeners to reevaluate democracy and the products of colonization.
Fela Kuti – ‘Trouble Sleep Yanga Wake Am’
If you are a Fela fan then you understand the magic behind this soothing song. Released in 1972, Trouble Sleep Yanga Wake Am is a soulful and soothing song that anyone is bound to enjoy. This classic song has been a sample by the “ African Giant,” Burna Boy in his song Dangote.
Vis-A-Vis -‘Obi Agye Me Dofo’
Obi Agye Me Dofo has been sampled by the likes of Alhaji K. Frimpong (Kyenkyen Bi Adi Mawu), and Omanhene Pozo (Kyenkyen Bi Adi Mawu.) In 1998, Reggie Rockstone, sampled Kyenkyen Bi Adi Mawu in the creation of his song “Keep Your Eyes On The Road.” Obi Agye Me Do is a classic highlife/ afro-blues tune, which tells a captivating tale of how someone took another man’s love away.
Ck Mann – ‘Fa Wa Koma Ma Me’
Off the album The Legendary C. K. Mann, Fa Wa Koma Ma Me simply means give your heart to me. This classic song was sampled by Rex Omar in the creation of his song titled Fa Wa Koma.
Pat Thomas – ‘Sika Ye Mogya’
Classified under the genre Borga Highlife, Sika Ye Mogya is an instant classic. Delivered on a rhythmic melody, Sika Ye Mogya present a thought-provoking message on the impact and importance of money.
Osibisa – ‘Woyaya’
Woyaya is thought provoking tune that cuts through decades. With an insight insightful message of hope, Woyaya will lead you wonder where are we going and when will we get there.
Shina Peters – ‘Afro Juju’
Derived from traditional Yoruba percussion, Afro Juju is a unique blend of Juju music and afrobeats. Afro juju is a danceable tune infused with instruments such as the electronic keyboard, saxophone and guitar
Rex Lawson – ‘Jolly Papa’
Jolly Papa is one of the few songs that speak to my heart. In all honesty, I don’t understand a word, but I can proudly sing this song with all my heart. Jolly papa is the definition of a classic highlife song. Heavily influenced by sounds in Ghana and Nigeria at that time, Rex Lawson and his band created a masterpiece.
These songs shape my love for music and exposed me to new ideas and themes.
