Beyonce’s song for Lion Ling movie has Swahili lyrics

Bonaventure Melah

The much awaited song, ‘Spirit,’ done by international music sensation Beyonce for Lion King Movie featured lyrics from one of Africa’s most widely spoken language, Kiswahili.

The song which is part of Lion King’s The Gift album produced by the American star will be used as a soundtrack to Disney’s new version of the classic movie Lion King.

The song’s intro features words in Kiswahili that are saluting the king. “Uishi kwa mda mrefu mfalme,” a voice chants twice at the start of the song.

The phrase translated in English means “Long live the king.”
The album is set for release on July 19, the date of the global release of the film and will feature the work of several African producers, according to Beyonce.

‘‘It was important that the music was not only performed by the most interesting and talented artists but also produced by the best African producers. Authenticity and heart were important to me,’ Beyonce said in a statement.

The statement adds that the album is ‘steeped in African influences from various corners of the continent, with unexpected collaborations, pulsating rhythms and crisp production that celebrate the African diaspora’.

‘‘This love letter to Africa highlights the setting of the film, rooted in African culture and wondrous narratives,’ she said