This song pays homage to the fact that all of humanity is born from a woman, and nothing compares to the love of a mother, who will fight and sacrifice against all odds to protect the next generation. I give thanks to our treasured women all around the world for all their sacrifices and hard work. However, I ask how societies give back to women in return for their hard work and sacrifices for humanity. Women are controlled, silenced, oppressed, beaten and mutilated ... I ask what type of people harm the very people that bring us to and raise us in this world? I ask the people of this world to stand by women, to fight for women and their dignity. I call directly on men to fight for change, and to educate young boys who will be our future generation of men. I call directly on women to ensure they support one another generously in success and to cast out jealousy. We must educate women fully in order to be able to harness all our citizens to be active participants in the development of our nations. I pay homage to just a few iconic female role models of African descent, both past and present, who have fought for social change: Maya Angelou | Queen Nanny of the Maroons | Yaa Asantewaa | Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba | Angela Davis | Ellen Johnson Sirleaf | Harriet Tubman | Mbuya Nehanda | Giséle Rabesahala | Miriam Makeba | Rose Chibambo | Margaret Ekpo | Sejourner Truth | Andrea Lua | Women Warriors of Dahomey. Women of the world, I thank you.
credits
from Badinyaa Kumoo,
track released September 23, 2022
Composed and Produced by Sona Jobarteh
Lead Vocals / Kora / Bass / Percussion (Karinyan / Shakers) / Guitars: Sona Jobarteh
Djimbe: Melissa Hei
Balafon: Lansiné Kouyaté
Backing Vocals: Mphoh Mckenzie, Marcina Arnold and Sona Jobarteh
Strum Guitar: Eric Appapoulay
Drum Kit: Westley Joseph
Mixed by Femi Temowo
Mastered by Chris Pavey
Dearest Arooj, firstly thank you. My brother died this year n what can be said about such loss n sadness. I saw n heard you at The end of the Road in England. I spent many years in India n love all the music, poetry of your heritage. Thankyou Arooj❤️ ben1769
I love these women. the voices mesh together perfectly; also the world music is exceptional. I have all of their albums and they're all excellent. Give them a listen. Steve Lake
A master of the West African kora, living in Denmark, brings together folk and pop from different corners of the globe to stunning effect. Bandcamp New & Notable Dec 5, 2018
Ballaké Sissoko is my favorite kora player, and following his musical life has led me to some of my most beloved musical discoveries.
This latest release is every bit as gorgeous as all of his prior work.
And it is so clear how he brings the best out of each of his collaborators. Charlie Moonbeam