We had an incredible safari in Tanzania, and part of our experience was due to our fantastic guide Aimi (Ahimidiwe Ismaely Nasari). He taught me bits of Swahili, including many animal names (which resulted in a different song, coming soon.) I was fortunate to get to sing this song for Aimi, his wife, Lightness (love that name) and his young son, Abdueli in their lovely home.
I love learning languages. I don’t get enough opportunity, but even just mastering a few words and phrases in Swahili was inspiring. I’ve always found that people are glad to help you learn a word or phrase, if they know you are sincere in wanting to learn. I’ve spent whole cab rides dwelling on differences in pronunciation and the names of obscure objects.
La La Salama is a way to say goodnight, as is Usiku Mwema and hence, this lullaby.
La La Salama. Lion Pajama. Crocodile Clock. Elephant Light.
La La Salama. Lullaby Mama Sings You to Sleep in the African Night.
Usiku Mwema
Usiku Mwema.
© Stuart Stotts 2015
Gorgeous addition to the world’s song repertoire!