"Malaika" - Popular Swahili Romantic Song (Cover) - J Nana & Lucinia Karrey

Malaika, nakupenda malaika
Angel, I love you angel

"Malaika" is possibly the most famous of all love songs in East Africa as well as being one of the most widely known of all Swahili songs in the world. Malaika in this context means "angel" in Swahili, and this word has always been used by the Swahili speakers to refer to a beautiful girl. We are presenting a modern duet version sung by J Nana and Lucina Karrey with acoustic guitars, piano as well as afro percussions.

The authorship of this popular song is still very controversial. However, many people credit its authorship to Adam Salim (born in 1916), a not-well-published Tanzanian songwriter. Miriam Makeba's early recording helped make it famous throughout the continent and eventually the world. Her performances of the song brought it to the attention of such famous names as Harry Belafonte, Pete Seeger, Boney M, Usha Uthup and Angélique Kidjo. The song has been covered by many other international artists such as Boney M, The Brothers Four, Helmut Lotti, Rocco Granata, Saragossa Band and is a staple for many African musicians.

Zenzile Miriam Makeba (1932 – 2008) was a South African singer, songwriter, actress, United Nations goodwill ambassador, and civil rights activist. She was an advocate against apartheid and white-minority government in South Africa. Makeba was among the first African musicians to receive worldwide recognition. She brought African music to an international audience, and popularized the “Malaika” song on the global stage . She also made several songs critical of apartheid, and became a symbol of opposition to the system. Upon her death, Nelson Mandela said that "her music inspired a powerful sense of hope in all of us".

This presentation of the "Malaika" song is a very special tribute to the much loved and missed singer and activist Miriam Makeba.

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Malaika, nakupenda malaika
Angel, I love you angel

Swahili Love Song
Lyrics With English Translations

Artists: J Nana and Lucinia Karrey

Guitarist: Pascal Bill

Produced by: J Nana (HEWANE RECORDS E.A)

Directed by: Director Alfie

Video Publisher: JollyGul.com