Story Behind The Song
In Igbo, ¨Anahua¨ means ¨She-who-sees-far¨. It was the name given to Uzoma Onyekchewa's grandmother, who stayed in her Nigerian village while the whole family left the country. Thinking about her, she says ¨anamahu¨, which means ¨I don't see you¨.
Song Description
Anahua is about how the heart bridges the distance in space and time. This distance seems to separate a woman from her older mother, while in their thoughts they remain close.
| Song Length |
3:44 |
Genre |
World - World Beat, World - African |
| Tempo |
Medium Slow (91 - 110) |
Lead Vocal |
Female Vocal |
| Mood |
Moving, Sociable |
Subject |
Love for Child, Mother |
| Language |
English |
Era |
2000 and later |
Lyrics
ANAHUA (Igbo for ¨She-who-sees-far¨
Even if you're far away
I still see you every day
You are cooking rice and yam
You're telling me who I am
You promised I would go far
Even if there was a war
Anahua... Anamahu
I'd say ¨how dark is the night¨
You'd say ¨look the stars are bright¨
In a small voice I would ask
you'd tell stories from your past
Then you'd say ¨sleep¨in Igbo
¨for tomorrow you have school¨ - I had school.
Anahua... Anamahu
Marama, adamarama, Anahua
So much longing in my heart... Where are you?
Marama, adamarama, Anahua
In our hearts we're not apart... Isn't it true?
Don't know how long I will say ¨Anamahu¨
I'll be home with you some day, Anahua
Time and hope are on our side
As we keep our love and pride
To bring the peace we will stand, strong and fast
Together we'll sing and dance, free at last!
Sing and dance!