Lyrics
Funga alafia,
ashay, ashay (repeat)
Translation
Apparently, the more accurate spelling of “funga” is “fanga,” and “ashay” is “asé” (source).
Fanga = “talking drum” in northern Liberia
Alafia = “health” in Yoruba (Nigeria)
Asé = Let it be so, or the English word “amen” in Yoruba (Nigeria)
(source)
See also
- songs with syncopation
- recorder GAC songs
- song with similar tune: Lil’ Liza Jane
- songs with Orff arrangements
- videos
- songs with syncopation
- songs with chords I V
- info about the song | more info about the song
YouTube
Extras for Plus Members
(or available for purchase here)
- Printable & Digital Rhythm Visual
- Song with chords, Orff Arrangement with Recorder Part (notes G, A, C’), Student copies
- MIDI file
- Listen
6 thoughts on “Funga Alafia”
Hi Beth!
Do you have sheet music for the first Funga Alafia video? It sounds cool, but I’d love to see it!
-Angie
Hi Angie!
I don’t have this Orff arrangement. It looks like it was part of an Orff 2 training class, so someone must own the rights to this arrangement. Maybe it’s even published somewhere. Sorry I can’t be of more help!
Beth
This is a very lovely song!!!
I agree! It’s easy to teach also!
Hi! There is some new information about the origins of this song and while it uses words from various west African countries and is in a style reminiscent of west African musical styles it is an American composed song. It’s still a great song to use, but the origins should be noted. It’s a great alternative for Lil’ Liza Jane as that song has been used and published as a Minstrel show song.
Do you have a source for this? Who is the composer?