Thursday, January 6, 2011

Veno - Nigeria Go Survive

Another fine Nigerian boogie track. One that is somewhat classic and quite possibly becoming an anthem in this still evolving afro-boogie genre. While on the road from the last Sam Marris post, it was hard not to lead to this stop. Another dusty, scratchy relic I've acquired from the motherland.
In fact, Nigeria has indeed survived. 2010 was the celebration of Nigeria's 50th year of independence. So, on the local airwaves and in the hearts and minds of Nigerians 'Nigeria Go Survive' has already been an anthem and a theme of hope and pride. Flirting with larger success and crossover appeal this song is sung in both native Nigerian tongue and English. It is often called Pidgin or Broken English but is popular among recording artists for a hipper flare. Nigeria is vast in different dialects but some Hausa, Fulfulde, Yoruba, and Ibibio can be heard in these Nigerian records. Many Nigerian artists in the eighties had come full circle with language and attempted to gain that greater appeal that speaking English provided. Written and produced by Jake Sollo of Osibisa fame, this was a marginal hit for Veno Marioghae in 1985. Released on the small but prominent Tabasi record label, it was also the home to many other African artists including Felix Lebarty, The Esbee Family, and Harry Mosco.


Veno - Nigeria Go Survive

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