Words and Music composed, written and arranged by Olusegun Akinlolu.
No part of these lyrics should be shared in any form or any public space without giving credit to the writer. All rights reserved.
© & ℗ 2023 EniObanke
English translations of Yoruba lyrics are in italics beneath each song.
1. A LE TENTE
T’a l’ó wà ní’bẹ̀, t’a l’ó wà t’á ó pè ní’ṣẹ́
Àwọn ọ̀rẹ̀ wa wọ́n wà ní’bẹ̀, wọ́n pọ̀ t’a pè ní’ṣẹ́
Wọ́n mí w’ọ̀nà f’ẹ́ni nṣì’nà
Wọ́n mí là’nà f’ẹ́ni nrìn bọ̀
Wọ́n mí gb’èrò wípé k’ó lè da
Wọ́n mí ṣ’ìpẹ̀ f’ẹ́ni nṣ’ọ̀fọ̀
Wọ́n mí pèsè f’aláìrí
Wọ́n mí ṣè’tò wípé k’ó lè da
Ẹgbẹ́ aláyọ̀, ẹgbẹ́ oníre npè yín sẹ́
Àwọn ọ̀rẹ́ wa wọ́n wà ní’bẹ̀, wọ́n pọ̀ t’a pè ní’ṣẹ́
Wọ́n mí gbè’jà f’ẹ́ni njà’jà rere
Wọ́n mí p’ẹ̀tù sí’nú fùfù
Wọ́n mí gb’èrò wípé k’ó lè da
Wọ́n mí wò’kè f’ẹ́ni nwo’lẹ̀
Wọ́n mí wo’lẹ̀ f’ẹ́ni nwò’kè
Wọ́n mí ṣè’tò wípé k’ó lè da
Gbogbo ẹ̀dá mà la pè, gbogbo yín mà la pè ní’ṣẹ́
Àwọn ọ̀rẹ́ wa wọ́n wà ní’bẹ̀, wọ́n pọ̀ t’a pè ní’ṣẹ́
Wọ́n mí w’ọ̀nà f’ẹ́ni nṣì’nà
Wọ́n mí là’nà f’ẹ́ni nrìn bọ̀
Wọ́n mí gb’èrò wípé k’ó lè da
Wọ́n mí ṣ’ìpẹ̀ f’ẹ́ni nṣ’ọ̀fọ̀
Wọ́n mí pèsè f’aláìrí
Wọ́n mí ṣè’tò wípé k’ó lè da
Wọ́n mí gbè’jà f’ẹ́ni njà’jà rere
Wọ́n mí p’ẹ̀tù sí’nú fùfù
Wọ́n mí gb’èrò wípé k’ó lè da
Wọ́n mí wò’kè f’ẹ́ni nwo’lẹ̀
Wọ́n mí wo’lẹ̀ f’ẹ́ni nwò’kè
Wọ́n mí ṣè’tò wípé k’ó lè da
A fò a lé ténté, a fò - àwa d’ọ̀rẹ́ ìdùnnú
A fò a lé ténté, a fò - àwa jogún ìdẹ̀ra
A fò a lé ténté, a fò - àwa bo’rí àìmọkan
A fò a lé ténté, a fò - àwa bo’rí ìkórira
A fò a lé ténté, a fò - àwa bo’rí ìwà ibi
Who is there?
Who is there to send on this mission?
Our friends are there
Many of our friends are engaged on this mission
Providing clarity for those who are lost
Clearing the path for future wayfarers
Always thinking of how to make things better;
Consoling the broken-hearted
Providing for those in need
Working to make things better for all.
The union of joy and goodness invites you
Our friends are there
Many of our friends are engaged on this mission
Supporting those in the struggle for justice
Calming those who are embittered
Always thinking of how to make things better;
Looking up for those looking down
Looking down for those looking up
Working to make things better for all.
Everyone is called
All of you are called to this mission
Our friends are there
Many of our friends are engaged on this mission
Providing clarity for those who are lost
Clearing the path for future wayfarers
Always thinking of how to make things better;
Consoling the broken-hearted
Providing for those in need
Working to make things better for all.
Supporting those in the struggle for justice
Calming those who are embittered
Always thinking of how to make things better;
Looking up for those looking down
Looking down for those looking up
Working to make things better for all.
We fly high, up at the top - happiness is our reward
We fly high, up at the top - peace is our inheritance
We fly high, up at the top - beyond ignorance
We fly high, up at the top - beyond hatred and bigotry
We fly high, up at the top - beyond all bad values.
2. AIMOKAN
Ṣ’ówó ló wùn ọ́, t’ó nwá, t’ó nsá’ré kìràkìtà?
Àbí ‘lé lo fẹ́ kọ́, tó gùn ọ́ l’ọ́kàn, t’ó nbẹ́ jàùjàù o?
Kò sí’re t’á nfẹ́ tí ẹ̀dá kò ní rí b’ásìkò bá tó
K’á sáà ma wù’wà ‘re l’ó tọ́ o
K’a sáà ma wù’wà gidi ọ̀rẹ́ mi l’áyé
Mo rí ọ t’o gb’ẹ́rù l’órí l’ọ̀sán tí òòrùn tàn yanyan
Mo tún rí ọ l’ọ́gànjọ́ t’o gbé’un s’éjìká nmí hílàhílo o
Bó ti wù k’ó ti rí, ire ẹ̀dá kò ní kọjá rẹ̀ b’ópẹ́b’óyá o
K’á sáà ní sùúrù l’ó tọ́ o
K’á sáà n’ítẹ̀lọ́rùn ọ̀rẹ́ mi l’áyé
Ilara ò l’érè ẹ gbọ́ mi, ó nsọ ni d’èrò ẹ̀yìn ni
Òòrùn ò ní ràn títí títí k’ó gba ‘ṣẹ́ òṣùpá ṣe l’ókè
Ojú ọ̀run t’ẹ́yẹ fò lẹ́gbẹgbẹ̀rún l’áì f’ara kan’ra o
K’á sáà l’áforítì l’ó tọ́ o
K’á sáà n’íwà tútù ọ̀rẹ́ mi l’áyé
Ṣ’ọ́gbọ́n l’ó wùn ọ́, t’ó nwá, t’ó nbẹ́ gìjàgìjà kiri?
Àbí’yì l’ò nfẹ́, kí gbogbo ayé máa wá rìrì fún ẹ o?
Ire ò ní kọjá on’íre, ojú mà ní pẹ́ sí o
K’á sáà ma wù’wà ‘re l’ó to o
K’á sáà ma wù’wà gidi ọ̀rẹ́ mi l’áyé
Àìmọ̀kan l’ó ndàmú ẹ̀dá o
L’ó ndàmú ènìyàn t’ó nṣè’páyà fún ọ̀la
Ìgbà àwa y’ó l’ádùn gan, y’ó láyọ̀ púpọ̀
K’á sáà ma wù’wà ‘re l’ó tọ́ o
K’á sáà ma wù’wà gidi ọ̀rẹ́ mi l’áyé
What is it you’re seeking that’s made you so restless?
Is it the desire for wealth or a house of your own?
All the reward we seek shall be ours in due season
What matters is to be of good character.
I see you heavy-laden at noon in the hot burning sun
I see you again at night, load on your shoulders, breathing hard
Not withstanding, one’s good fortune will not pass one by
What matters is to have patience and contentment.
Backwardness is the reward of those possessed of bitter envy
However strong its rays, the sun never assumes the moon’s role
The sky is wide enough for thousands of birds to fly without touching wings
What matters is to have perseverance and calmness.
What is it you’re seeking that’s made you so restless?
Is it wisdom or fame, so that you earn the respect of everyone?
All the reward we seek shall be ours in due season
What matters is to be of good character.
Lack of wisdom is why folks panic about the future
Our days will be full of joy and sweetness
What matters is to be of good character.
3. CHARIOT OF MELODY
Early morning
Gentle sunlight in my eyes
Got this feeling I can’t lose, oh yeah
On the road to happiness, sitting pretty, feeling good
I’m the one who’s got the goods, got the groove
Got the moves, oh yeah
And if you’re ready…
Chariot of melody take me up high
Take me up high above these clouds
I am the product of a thousand daydreams
Take me up high beyond this dark ol’ place
Everybody’s here
Full of courage, seeking hope
Got the feeling it’s our time, oh yeah
On the road to something great, new beginnings full of joy
We’re the ones who’ve got the answers, got the truth
And the rhythm, oh yeah
When you’re ready…
Chariot of melody take us high
Take us high above these clouds
We are the evidence of a million wishes
Take us high beyond this dark ol’ place
Don’t hold your breath now
This is not a passing phase
Folks are really on the move, oh yeah
On the road to sweet relief, true reform beyond belief
They’re the ones who’ve got the goods, got the groove
Got the moves, oh yeah
When you’re ready…
Chariot of melody take us high
Take us high above these clouds
We’re the reality of ageless visions
Take us high beyond this dark ol’ place
4. ISE L’ADURA
Iṣẹ́ mà l’àdúrà ẹni
Àgbà t’ó m’òye ẹ jọ̀wọ́ ẹ tọ́’mọ s’ọ́nà òtítọ́
K’ọ́n lè ṣe’re l’áyé
Iṣẹ́ yẹn làwúre gangan
Àgbà t’ó m’òye ẹ jọ̀wọ́ ẹ kọ́’mọ ní’wà gidi
K’ọ́n lè ṣe’re l’áyé
Ẹni nfẹ́’re l’óko
Ìyẹn á dẹ’lẹ̀ f’ọ́kà
Á t’èbù bọ’lẹ̀ l’ásìkò, á ro’ko, á kọ’bè
Ẹni nwá èrè ọjà
Ìyẹn á k’óun sí’lẹ̀
Á s’ẹ̀rín s’ọ̀yàyà, á p’olówó, á f’oníbàárà mọ́’ra
Ẹni nwá ọrọ̀ inú ibú
Ìyẹn á ti’kọ̀ s’ómi
Á s’àwọ̀n s’ódò gbalaja, níbi t’áwọn ẹja pọ̀ rẹpẹtẹ
Ọlọ́dẹ àná ò f’ẹnu p’ẹran
Nṣe ló gbé’ra ní’lẹ̀
Tó wọ’nú aginjù lọ láìbẹ̀rù f’éwu tí nbẹ l’ọ́nà
Fọwọ́pawọ́ ngò rí nkan (ṣ’iṣẹ́, fi sùúrù si)
Fẹsẹ̀pasẹ̀ ngò rí nkan (ṣ’iṣẹ́, fi òtítọ́ si)
Tojúbọlé ẹ ò r’erè níbẹ̀
Sẹbọṣòògùn òtúbántẹ́
Jágbójájù láìláròjinlẹ̀
Ògbójúwòkè w’Elédùmarè
Sebí’ṣẹ́ yẹn l’àdúrà ẹni
Àní ‘ṣẹ́ yẹn l’àwúre gangan
One’s labour is the real prayer
You wise elders, please show the children the true path
That they may succeed in life.
Work is the true good luck charm
You wise elders, please teach the children good values
That they may do well in life.
He who wishes to profit from farming
Must till the earth, make heaps
And plant seeds at the right time.
He who desires profitable trade in the market
Must display and advertise his wares,
And cheerfully invite customers.
He who seeks the riches of the sea
Must set out in a boat, cast his net far and wide
Where the fishes are known to be plenty.
The famous hunter of yore didn’t get game by talking
He got up and set out for the forest
Without any fear of what could lay ahead.
Don’t stay there rubbing your hands together
Work, and embrace patience
Don’t just be there rubbing your feet together
Work, embrace truth
No gain in crawling about seeking help
None in procuring magic spells
Hustling everywhere without a clear goal
Or looking up to the sky for divine assitance.
5. AJOSEPO
Ìṣọ̀kan ni ó gbé wa d’ókè yí o
Ìgboyà ni ó gbé wa dé ‘bi iyì
Òtítọ́ ni ó mú wa d’òmìnira
Ìrẹ́pọ̀ ni ó gbé wa dé ‘bi ayọ̀
Kí l’ẹ wí?
A mí ṣe’un à jo ṣe pọ̀
A mí rìnrìn à jo rìn pọ̀
A mí jẹ’un à jo je pọ̀
A mí m’oun à jo mu pọ̀
Alábòsí bìlà, jẹ́ k’á r’ọ́nà
Ìfura, ṣe b’óun loògùn àgbà o
Ṣẹ̀ mí nbi ẹ́, ṣe b’óun ní m’ọ̀rẹ́ gùn
Òtítọ́ ni ó mú wa d’òmìnira
Ìrẹ́pọ̀ ni ó gbé wa dé ‘bi ògo
Kí l’ẹ wí?
A mí r’oun à jo rò pọ̀
A mí fa’un à jo fà pọ̀
A mí ru’un à jo rù pọ̀
A mí wo’bi à jo wọ̀ pọ̀
Oníbàjẹ́ yàgò, k’á rí ‘bi gbà
Alábòsí bìlà, jẹ́ k’á r’ọ́nà
Oníbàjẹ́ yàgò, k’á rí ‘bi gbà
Aláìmọ̀kan bìlà, jẹ́ k’á r’ọ́nà
Oníyangí yàgò, epo nmo rù
Unity is what will take us to the top
Courage will lift us to honour
Truth will lead us to freedom
Good relations will take us to the place of joy
And what do you say?
We are working together, as we should
We are walking together, as we should
We are feasting together, as we should
We are drinking together, as we should
Caution is the watchword of the elders
Openness is the key to a lasting friendship
Truth will lead us to freedom
Good relations will take us to the place of joy
And what do you say?
We are thinking together, as we should
We are pulling together, as we should
We are bearing the load together, as we should
We are entering the places together that we should
The dishonest, the destroyers and the clueless
Depart, stand aside
That our path may be clear.
6. STATUE IN LAGOS
There’s a statue in downtown Lagos
Of a lady who sold her brothers and sisters
For mirrors and beads
She thought she had it made
But the Whiteman was done buying black flesh
The taste was changing in Europe, new beginnings
Now the battle lines are drawn
Ha hey oh, this land is not big enough for the two of us
Ha hey oh, pack your bags and leave here
Your time is up, your day is done
Go on, don’t look back.
There’s a little square in the town beneath a rock
Bears the name of the same crafty lady
Selling tools of war
She thought she had it made
But to the white man, she was a dealer in arms
A greedy criminal queen with hands in blood
Forever banished from this coast
Ha hey oh, this land is not big enough for the two of us
Ha hey oh, pack your bags and leave here
Your time is up, your day is done
Go on, don’t look back.
Hear the voices of the ones from the depth of the ocean
Listen to the voices of the ones who died on the slave ships
Can’t you hear the voices of the wretched ones you sold
Listen to the voices -
Can you hear them, can you hear them?
7. EYE MEJILA
Ẹyẹ méjìlá l’órí igi, l’étí fèrèsé ilé mi
Wọ́n mí kọ’rin l’ òwúrọ̀ tí mo jí
Wọ́n mí kọ’rin ayọ̀
Wọ́n mí kọ’rin ìwúrí
Mo wá gbé’ra ní’lẹ̀ mo bọ́’júbọ́’nu
Mo gbé àpamọ́wọ́ mi, mo kó bàtà s’ẹ́sẹ̀
Ojú mà mí ro mí, àárẹ̀ m’ọ́kàn mi
Ẹyẹ ó dá’nu dúró o, wọ́n mí kọ’rin
Wọ́n mí kọ’rin ìgboyà
Wọ́n mí kọ’rin ìṣítí
Wọ́n ní:
Ṣe gírí, múra jáde, òní mà ládùn púpọ̀
Ṣe kíákíá, yára bóóde, ire mà mí pè ọ́ o
Mo ṣí’lẹ̀kùn ilé, mo bọ́ s’óde
Mo rìn pàdé ẹbí pẹ̀l’álàdúgbò
Mo fi tẹ̀rìtẹ̀rìn kí gbogbo wọn
Mo mí kọ’rin ayọ̀
Mo mí kọ’rin ìwúrí
Mo mà d’óko òwò mi, mo wà ní’bi iṣẹ́
Mo pàdé ọ̀dọ́, mo mà r’ọ́mọdé níbẹ̀ o, pẹ̀l’ágbàlagbà
L’ọ́kùnrin l’óbìnrin
Mo r’ẹ́ni tí nronú, mo r’ẹ́ni tí nbẹ̀rù
Mo r’ẹ́ni tí ngbọ̀n l’ẹ́sẹ̀, t’ó nṣiyèméjì
Ma fi sùúrù kẹ́ wọn, ma tọ́ wọn s’ọ́nà
Mo mí kọ’rin ìgboyà
Mo mí kọ’rin ìṣítí
Mo ní:
Ṣe gírí, múra jáde, òní mà ládùn púpọ̀
Ṣe kíákíá, yára bóóde, ògo mà mí pè wá o
Twelve birds perched on a tree, just outside my window
Singing as I awoke in the morning
Singing songs of joy
Singing songs inspiration
So I got up, cleaned myself
Put on my shoes and picked up my bag
Still I had no desire, no drive
But the birds wouldn’t let up; they kept singing
Singing songs of encouragement
Singing songs of enlightenment
They said: come on now get going,
Today is full of sweet promises
Come quickly, go out there,
Good fortune awaits you.
So I opened the door and stepped outside
There I meet my family and some neighbours
I greet them all heartily
Singing songs of joy
Singing songs inspiration
Settled at my place of work
I meet the youth, children, older people, male and female
Some deep in thought, some full of crippling fear
Some cowering, drowning in self-doubt
I comfort them and guide them gently
Singing songs of encouragement
Singing songs of enlightenment
I said: come on now get going,
Today is full of sweet promises
Come quickly, go out there,
True glory awaits us.
8. IGBE APA
B’ọ́mọ bá t’ọ́kọ́ ní ò, à fún l’ọ́kọ́
Ṣèbí ‘yẹn ọmọ t’ó mọ’kọ́ lò l’à nwí
Ọmọ t’á ò kọ́, ìyẹn á kó ti’lé tà pátá o
B’ó bá wá tà yẹn tán, á tún bọ́ s’óko
Á t’oko á ta’lẹ̀, á t’omi á t’odò
Á ta bàbá, ta yèyé, ta gbogbo ẹbí rẹ̀ pátá
Ẹ ò r’áyé wọn l’óde àwé (ọ̀rẹ́) ò, ni wọ́n nké
Ẹ w’ẹ̀sín wọn ní’ta o jàre
Agẹmọ ti bí’mọ rẹ̀, ó bí’mọ rẹ̀ sí’nú ẹwà
Àìmọ́ọ́jó ìyẹn wá d’ọwọ́ ọmọ ò
Ọmọ tí ò gb’ẹ̀kọ́, ìyẹn á k’àbámọ̀ ní’wájú o
L’ọ́jọ́ ìdààmú, á wá fa’jú roro
A w’òkè, á wo’lẹ̀, á w’òtún, á w’òsì
A wo bàbá, wo yèyé, pe gbogbo ẹbí rẹ̀ s’ẹ́kún
Ẹ ò r’áyé ’un l’óde àwé (ọ̀rẹ́) ò, l’ó nké
Ẹ w’ẹ̀sín ’un ní’ta o jàre
Àsàdànù l’ọmọde nsà ‘kuta ‘wájú ‘le bàbá rẹ̀
Bó bá pẹ́, ilé wọn á d’ahoro ò
Ọmọ t’á ò tọ́, ìyẹn á kó ti’lé tà pátá o
B’ó bá wá tà yẹ̀n tán, á tún bọ́ s’óko
Á t’oko á ta’lẹ̀, á t’omi, á t’odò
Á ta bàbá, ta yèyé, ta gbogbo ẹbí rẹ̀ pátá
Ẹ ò r’áyé wọn l’óde àwé (ọ̀rẹ́) ò, ni wọ́n nké
Ẹ w’ẹ̀sín wọn ní’ta o jàre
Ẹ jọ̀wọ́ ẹ t’ọ́mọ s’ọ́nà yeye (babá)
Ẹ jọ̀wọ́ ẹ k’ọ́mọ ní’wà rere
When a child is old enough to be given his own hoe we give it to him
That is a child who already knows how to use one
A child who has not been well trained will squander his family’s wealth
And he won’t stop until he has sold everything:
The land, the water, his parents and the whole family!
Watch them cry as they bemoan their sorry fate
Wailing, wallowing in shame and public disgrace.
The colourful masquerade has taught its progeny all the tricks
The onus is now on the young one to perform well
A child who rejects proper training will one day regret it
When trouble comes, he will be disheartened
Looking up and down, right and left, to his father, mother
Inviting the whole family to lamentation:
Oh, what has befallen us!
Oh, the shame, the public disgrace!
One by one the wasteful child throws away
The building blocks of his father’s house
With time, the house will become a wreck
An untrained child will squander his family’s wealth
And he won’t stop until he has sold everything:
The land, the water, his parents and the whole family!
Watch them cry as they bemoan their sorry fate
Wailing, wallowing in shame public disgrace
Please show the children the proper way
Please teach the children good values
9. OLUMUYIWA
Jọ̀wọ́ bá mi gb’ẹ́ni mi d’ókè odò
Ó parí iṣẹ́ rẹ̀ ó ndàbọ̀ re ‘lé
Olumuyiwa ìyá Ẹgbẹ́ Oní-ìhìnrere
Abánitọ́mọ nre lé rẹ̀
Ọlọ́kọ̀, jọ̀wọ́ bá mi ṣ’ẹni mi ní jẹ́jẹ́
Ó j’èrè l’ọ́jà ó sì tún fì’wà lò’gbà
Olumuyiwa ìyá Ẹgbẹ́ Oní-ìhìnrere
Abánikẹ́mọ nre lé rẹ̀
Jọ̀wọ́ bá mi gb’ẹ́ni mi d’ókè odò
Ó bo’rí ìdánwò, ó yè kooro láyé
Olumuyiwa ìyá Ẹgbẹ́ Oní-ìhìnrere
Abánitọ́mọ nre lé rẹ̀
Ọlọ́kọ̀, jọ̀wọ́ bá mi ṣ’ẹni mi ní jẹ́jẹ́
Ó ṣe’wọ̀n t’ó lè ṣe, ó là’nà ayọ̀ ka’lẹ̀
Olumuyiwa ìyá Ẹgbẹ́ Oní-ìhìnrere
Abánikẹ́mọ nre lé rẹ̀
B’ó m’órin s’ẹ́nu, b’ó ṣe t’àdúrà
Gbogbo ilé á mì tìtìtìtì
B’ó bá ṣe ká fi’jó ṣè ‘dúpẹ́
Ẹ̀yin ẹ ṣá ma wò ó
Helmsman, please ferry my beloved to the shore
She’s done her duty and now returns home
Olumuyiwa, matron of the Good Tidings legion
Mother of Many goes back home.
Helmsman, please take good care of my beloved
She’s lived a good and profitable life
Olumuyiwa, matron of the Good Tidings legion
Mother of Many goes back home.
Helmsman, please ferry my beloved to the shore
She overcame her challenges in sparkling form
Olumuyiwa, matron of the Good Tidings legion
Mother of Many goes back home.
Helmsman, please take good care of my beloved
She did her best, built a path of joy
Olumuyiwa, matron of the Good Tidings legion
Mother of Many goes back home.
When she opens her mouth, in song or prayer
The house trembles to its foundations
And if it’s to dance merrily in gratitude
You just watch her go.
10. ONLANA
Mò nlọ l’óko mi ò mà l’ẹ́nìkankan
Mò nw’ọ̀nà f’ára mi
Mò nlà’nà f’ẹ́ni t’ó nbọ̀
Mò nṣè’wọ̀n tí mo lè ṣe
Bí mo bá nbọ̀ l’óde ma ṣè’bà f’ágbàgbà
Mi ò dè’nà m’ẹ́nìkankan
Mò nw’ọ̀nà f’ẹ́ni t’ó nbọ̀
Mò nṣè’wọ̀n tí mo lè ṣe
Kí’lé ayé wa dùn k’ó l’áyọ̀
K’a ṣè’wọ̀n t’a lè ṣe
K’a fì ‘yókù sí’lẹ̀
K’a là’nà f’ẹ́ni t’ó nbọ̀
K’a lè j’ogún ìdẹ̀ra pẹ̀l’áyọ̀ o
K’a j’èrè ìbàlẹ̀ ọkàn pẹ̀l’áyọ̀ o
Ẹgbẹ́ oníre l’àwa nbá rìn
Àwa ò gbìmọ̀ àdánìkanjẹ
À ngbèrò k’ó lè da o
A mí ṣè’tò kí aṣálẹ̀ k’ó dì ‘lú olóyin
Ẹ jẹ́ a gbé’ra ní’lẹ̀ k’á má ṣ’ọ̀lẹ
K’a ṣè’wọ̀n t’a lè ṣe
K’a fì ‘yókù sí’lẹ̀
K’a là’nà f’ẹ́ni t’ó nbọ̀
K’a lè j’ogún ìdẹ̀ra pẹ̀l’áyọ̀ o
K’a j’èrè ìbàlẹ̀ okàn pẹ̀l’áyọ̀ o
K’a lè j’ogún ìmolẹ̀ tí bo’rí òkùnkùn biri
I’m going my own way, not chasing after anyone
Looking out for myself, clearing the path for others
Doing the best I can.
Stepping out I pay homage to the elders
I’m not blocking anyone’s path
Looking out for those coming, doing the best I can.
That our time be full of joy and plenty
Let us do the best we can and leave the rest
Clear the path for future wayfarers
So that we may enjoy comfort, peace of mind and joy.
We are walking in the company of good people
Who don’t think in selfish and greedy ways
Always planning how to make things better for all
Working to turn a moribund society into a progressive one
Come on, let’s get going; do our best and leave the rest
Clear the path for future wayfarers
So that we may enjoy comfort, peace of mind and joy
And dazzling illumination that overcomes the deepest darkness.
11. VICTORY PARADE
Sweet lover, I have come to take you out to town
Where all the fun can be had
Oh, we’ll be dancing in the street (all through the night)
It’s the day we have all been waiting for
When the people will be free again
Oh, from the clutches of the vultures (and the bloodsuckers)
True love is our bond
Smiling faces all around
Arms reaching out in warm embrace
Oh, this is where we ought to be
Sweet lover, I am here to take away your pains
Move on up from this lonely place
Oh, leave the darkness behind (go into the light)
Out in town there’s a lively party going on
Everybody has hope again
Oh, it’s the dawn of a new day (a new beginning)
Trust is our banner
Honesty of purpose all the way
Arms linking up in unity
Oh, this is where we ought to be
Sweet lover, I have come again to say hello
My heart is pure and aglow
Oh, may this light never die (keep it burning bright)
Come dance with me
You’re the most beautiful of all
We have overcome backwardness and failure
You’re the best gain of all (you’re my victory)
Everyone is watching us
All clapping and cheering
It’s our turn on the dance floor
Oh, this is where we ought to be
Everyone is happy here
In this place of harmony
It’s our turn on the dance floor
Oh, this is where we ought to be
12. FOR ARIKE
Olólùfẹ́ àwa ọmọ Àríkẹ́
Ṣebí’wọ lo l’òní o, a dùn wò
Gbogbo ayé mà mí s’àfẹ́rí rẹ
Jíjó rẹ fún wa ká yọ̀ mọ́ ọ l’óde
Rọra máa gb’ẹ́sẹ̀ ní kànkan
Oníwàtútù yí ọmọ ìwúrí
Ṣèbí’wọ lo pè wá jọ, a mà dé o
Ojú rẹ dùn wò, ó ndá ni l’ọ́rùn
Sùgbọ́n ‘wà rẹ lo fi tàn bí òsùpá
Ilé rẹ wùn wá o ká jọ dé’bẹ̀
Ṣa ma ṣe tìrẹ o ọmọ àrídunnú
Má wo t’àwọn ẹlẹ́gàn agbẹ̀yìnṣebi
Òjòwú ayé ọ̀tá ìlọsíwájú
N’ọwọ́ rẹ s’ókè k’o dì mọ́’re òní
Olólùfẹ́ àwa Àríkẹ́ gẹ̀gẹ̀
Omọ́gbẹ̀kọ́ arẹwà adáraníjó
Bó bá s’ọgbọ́n, o ní yẹn, oò rẹ̀wẹ̀sì
Iṣẹ́ ọwọ́ rẹ mà gbé ọ lékè
Inú àwa mà ndùn láti mọ̀ ọ́
Ìjòkó ẹ̀yẹ rẹ wà l’óde máa bọ̀
Gbé’ra n’ílẹ̀, òní l’ọjọ́ iyì rẹ
A dé, a bá ẹ yọ̀
Sweet darling Arike
Today’s your special day our beautiful one
The whole world awaits your grand entrance
Do that dance as we celebrate with you
Go gently one step at a time
Sweet-tempered one, our source of pride
You invited us all and here we are
It’s such a joy to behold your alluring face
But your good character is what really glows like the moon
We’d be honored to follow you home
Just keep doing your thing, our fountain of happiness
Ignore the detractors who hide to do their evil
They are just envious people, enemies of progress
Reach out and embrace today’s blessings
Our sweet, sweet darling Arike
Well-trained and beautiful one; splendid dancer
When it comes to wisdom, you’ve got that too
Your good works have lifted you high
We are so proud to know you
Come on out and take your seat of glory
Come on now, today’s your day of honour
We have all come to celebrate with you.
13. NO WORDS
We don’t need no music in the air
We dance to silence
We don’t have to work so hard for it
Come on close, hold on tight.
Your eyes, bright as day
Deep in your gorgeous eyes, mysteries lurking
We don’t need no words
We’ve got it.
Your eyes, bright and gay
Oh your beautiful eyes, it’s truly magic
We don’t need no words
We’ve got it.
We’re the rhythm of the wet and dry
Take it easy, take it slow
We’re the reason the rain fell last night
Cuddle close, nestle here.
Your eyes, dark as night
There in your shiny eyes, thrills and twinkles
We don’t need no words
We’re steady.
Your eyes, sweet delight
Oh your beautiful eyes, pomp and laughter
We don’t need no words
We’ve got it.
14. ENISUNGBALAJA
Orí nṣaájò f’órí k’órí k’ó lè ba sunwọ̀n
Ọwọ́ nṣaájò f’ọ́wọ́ k’á r’óun tó dùn ṣe l’óde
Ló d’ífá fún ẹni sùn gbalaja tó gb’ojú àlá w’ọjà
Èèló l’ẹ̀ ntà’dùnnú, èèló nì’bàlẹ̀ ọkàn
Èèló l’ẹ̀ ntà’lọsíwájú, èèló l’ayọ̀?
Ibi orí dá ni sí làágbé, kì ṣe ti ká jòkó tẹ̀tẹ̀rẹ̀
Ojú ayé a tàn roboto
Ọ̀nà là f’ẹ̀ni tí nṣè’bà èrò ọ̀nà
Ló d’ífá fún ẹni sùn gbalaja tó gb’ojú àlá w’ọjà
Èèló l’ẹ̀ ntà’dùnnú, èèló nì’bàlẹ̀ ọkàn
Èèló l’ẹ̀ ntà’lọsíwájú, èèló l’ayọ̀?
Where is the sunshine beyond the dark night?
When is the rain beyond the drought?
What lies beyond the bend for the roaring river?
Ọ̀yẹ̀ là ọ̀yẹ̀ là, ojú là kedere o
Ọ̀yẹ̀ là ọ̀yẹ̀ là, ọjọ́ là kedere o
Ọ̀yẹ̀ là ọ̀yẹ̀ là, ọ̀na là kedere o
Ọjọ́ òní a p’ẹ̀dá s’éré
Ọjọ́ àná l’àgbà ìwà
Ọjọ́ ọ̀la nbọ̀ wá kánkán
Adùn f’ẹ̀ni tó m’òye àsìkò
Ló d’ífá fún ẹni sùn gbalaja tó gb’ojú àlá w’ọjà
Èèló l’ẹ̀ ntà’dùnnú, èèló nì’bàlẹ̀ ọkàn
Èèló l’ẹ̀ ntà’lọsíwájú, èèló l’ayọ̀?
Head pleads for Head, that one should prosper
Hand pleads for Hand, that our efforts may meet with success
So said the Ifa oracle to He-Who-Soundly-Slept
Who entered a market in his dream
“How much do you sell Happiness?
How much for Peace of Mind?
How much do you sell Progress?
How much for Joy?”
You prosper where destiny has planted you
That’s not an excuse to sit and do nothing
The world is wide open and large
The path opens for those who acknowledge other wayfarers
So said the Ifa oracle to He-Who-Soundly-Slept
Who entered a market in his dream
“How much do you sell Happiness?
How much for Peace of Mind?
How much do you sell Progress?
How much for Joy?”
Open wide and clear, may all eyes be opened
Open wide and clear, may the day break brightly
Open wide and clear, may the path open wide
Today calls us to a race
Yesterday is the past of being
Tomorrow arrives quickly
Delight for those who understand times and seasons
So said the Ifa oracle to He-Who-Soundly-Slept
Who entered a market in his dream
“How much do you sell Happiness?
How much for Peace of Mind?
How much do you sell Progress?
How much for Joy?”
15. CLUB 54
The other day I was sitting there just minding my business
When she says to me, “Well, it’s time to go”
Feet are lead, heart is gold,
I really think you should go on alone and let me be
Or just hold my glass
Cos the way I feel now I’d just like to dance all night
I’ve lived the stories, borne the loss, been there and done that
And it’s just all lies, doesn’t move me anymore
You can play your politics, make your money
Just leave me out of your silly games
I’ve got some way to go and time is not my friend
Cos the way I feel now I’d just like to dance all night
Tell me, dear, are the lights not flashing?
I think it’s my turn on the dance floor
Come on love, catch me if you can
The way I feel now I’d just like to dance all night
I’m done with pain, done with sorrow
In this place no one can touch me
Shut the door on your rotten heroes
Cos the way I feel now I’d just like to dance all night.