Iwoya
Angélique Kidjo Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You don't have to be old to be wise
A bird doesn't wait 'til it dies to fly
Emptiness is not for me
Fill me up and spill over me
Angélique Kidjo:
Titila ela temi yo
Lon dan ninou ayé pelou oyaya
Mon fé dada foun éda mio
Fon fé ki ayé temin koda
Dave:
See your soul, open your eyes
From inside, your soul comes shining
Angélique:
Mon ria émi ninou i fè
I fè foua nami pelou ayo
Dave:
You don't have to be old to be wise
Don't you hear the baby crying
Both:
Iwoya, Iwoya, Iwoya
Iwoya, Iwoya, Iwoya
Angélique:
???
Both:
You don't have to be old to be wise
A bird doesn't wait 'til it dies to fly
And emptiness is not for me
Fill me up, fill me up, spill over me
Iwoya, Iwoya, Iwoya
Iwoya, Iwoya, Iwoya
...
The lyrics of "Iwoya" by Angélique Kidjo and Dave Matthews evoke the idea that wisdom is not limited to old age and that one can find fulfillment and purpose in life by being present in the moment and embracing one's soul. The song urges the listener to be like a bird that doesn't wait until it's too late to fly, to not wait for opportune moments to exist fully and without restraint. The lyrics reflect a desire to be filled with life, energy, and joy, to be like an overflowing cup, an abundance in all aspects of life.
The song is primarily sung in Yoruba, a language spoken in West Africa, and English. It features elements of African and rock music, blending the sounds and cultures to create a unique musical experience. The lyrics are layered with meanings, showcasing the beauty of language and culture.
One interesting fact about "Iwoya" is that it was released in 1991 and was a hit in France, where it reached the top of the charts. Angélique Kidjo is a multi-award-winning Beninese singer, and this song has become one of her most popular tracks. Additionally, Dave Matthews is an American singer-songwriter who has collaborated with Kidjo on several occasions. The cultural fusion of Yoruba and English lyrics alongside the blend of African and rock music in a French context highlights the universality of music.
Some other interesting facts about the song include that the lyrics allude to the Yoruba deity Oya, goddess of change and power, and the term "Iwoya" means "chariots of fire" or "spirited horses." The song features an upbeat, danceable rhythm that is typical of Kidjo's work, and her powerful and soulful voice elevates the emotional impact of the lyrics. The combination of Dave Matthews' rock voice and Kidjo's African-inspired sound creates a unique blend of musical styles.
Chords: Unfortunately, there is no information available on the chords for this song.
Line by Line Meaning
Titila ela temi yo
My heart is beating fast
Lon dan ninou ayé pelou oyaya
In this world of chaos, there is hope
Mon fé dada foun éda mio
I believe in myself and my destiny
Fon fé ki ayé temin koda
I know that the world is full of surprises
Mon ria émi ninou i fè
I am laughing inside because of happiness
I fè foua nami pelou ayo
My happiness overflows and spreads around me
Iwoya, Iwoya, Iwoya
Unknown
Don't you hear the baby crying
Listen to the cries of the innocent
You don't have to be old to be wise
Wisdom comes from experience, not age
A bird doesn't wait 'til it dies to fly
Seize every opportunity and don't wait for the perfect moment
Emptiness is not for me
I refuse to live a meaningless life
Fill me up, fill me up, spill over me
I want to be filled with all the good things life has to offer
Iwoya, Iwoya, Iwoya
Unknown
Contributed by Mateo H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Kwame Atoapoma Oteanankanduro
on Summertime
Awesome! Haa, I want the lyrics in the language she sang in.