Osibisa - Woyaya | #b002

Osibisa, the legendary Afro-rock band formed in 1969, is celebrated for pioneering the global spread of African music. With its fusion of highlife, jazz, rock, and traditional African rhythms, the band became a symbol of cultural pride and musical innovation. Among their most iconic works is the inspirational track “Woyaya”, a timeless anthem of hope, unity, and resilience.

The Story Behind “Woyaya”

The word “Woyaya” means “we keep going” in Ga, a Ghanaian language, perfectly capturing the spirit of perseverance that defines the song. Composed by the seven original members of Osibisa—Teddy Osei, Mac Tontoh, Sol Amarfio (Ghana), Loughty Lassisi Amao (Nigeria), Robert Bailey (Trinidad), Spartacus R (Grenada), and Wendell Richardson (Antigua)—the song embodies their collective vision of resilience and progress.

The lyrics, written by Ugandan poet Annie Masembe, carry a universal message: no matter how challenging the journey, we will reach our destination. This message resonated far beyond the band’s African roots, leading to the song’s inclusion in Art Garfunkel’s debut solo album and performances by the a cappella group Sweet Honey in the Rock.

The Lyrics: A Testament to Perseverance

“We are going,Heaven knows where we are going,We will know we’re there.”

The opening lines embrace uncertainty, acknowledging that the path forward may be unclear. Yet, there is a deep conviction in the refrain, “We will know we’re there.” It reflects a faith in the journey itself, a belief that perseverance will lead to clarity and fulfillment.

“It will be hard we know,And the road will be muddy and rough,But we’ll get there.”

These lines capture the essence of the human experience—the struggles, setbacks, and challenges that accompany progress. Yet, the unwavering confidence in the refrain, “We know we will,” offers a beacon of hope for those navigating their own trials.

A Multicultural Collaboration

Osibisa’s original lineup—dubbed “the beautiful seven”—embodied a multicultural vision, bringing together musicians from across Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond. Their music was a celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of collaboration, and “Woyaya” epitomized this ethos. The track’s universal appeal, rooted in African wisdom and global solidarity, made it a unifying anthem for audiences around the world.

Legacy and Impact

Since its release, “Woyaya” has transcended genres and cultures. Its uplifting message has been embraced in various contexts, from social justice movements to spiritual gatherings. Sweet Honey in the Rock’s a cappella rendition brought a fresh perspective to the song, while Art Garfunkel’s cover introduced it to new audiences through his debut solo album.

The song’s enduring popularity lies in its simplicity and profound message: keep going, no matter how uncertain or difficult the journey may seem.

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“Woyaya” is a mantra for life’s journey. With its roots in African language and wisdom, the song transcends borders, offering a universal message of perseverance, faith, and hope. Osibisa’s collective artistry and multicultural collaboration breathe life into this anthem, reminding listeners that, though the road may be muddy and rough, we will get there.

By embodying the spirit of resilience, “Woyaya” continues to inspire generations, proving that the journey is as important as the destination.

(Source: The Bird Sings)