What a rotten week filled with hatred. From the Middle East to Eastern Europe to the US, I am reaching breaking point.
I'm a big believer in music to soothe the soul. Tonight I have listened to the African lullaby Thula Baba about 20 times. Last week, the version I am listening to wasn't my favorite but my opinion has changed. It truly doesn't get much more beautiful than this. Listen through twice and tell me I am wrong. And if you think I am wrong, please provide evidence of what you think is better.
Zulu Lyrics
Thula thul, thula baba, thula sana,
Tul’ubab ‘uzobuya ekuseni
Thula thul, thula baba, thula sana,
Tul’ubab ‘uzobuya ekuseni
Kukh’in khan-yezi, zi-holel’ u baba,
Zim-khan yi-sela indlel’e ziyak-haya,
Sobe sik hona xa bonke be-shoyo,
Be-thi bu-yela u-bu-ye le khaya,
Thula thula thula baba,
Thula thula thula sana,
Thula thula thula baba,
Thula thula thula san.
English Translation
Keep quiet my child
Keep quiet my baby
Be quiet, daddy will be home by dawn
There’s a star that will lead him home
The star will brighten his way home
The hills and stones are still the same my love
My life has changed, yes my life has changed
The children grow but you don’t know my love
The children grew but you don’t see them grow
Other versions
What do you listen to when looking for peace?
Amandla can have a few hours off, tonight I want some rest and reflection.