Their albums have been released through Peter Gabriel's Real World Records and they are also reportedly the best-selling band on the label, only exceeded in sales by Gabriel himself. Their striking live performances have often become the highlights of the WOMAD concert festivals. They signed a contract with Real World obliged to release five albums, of which the 2005 release Anatomic is the last. At this writing it is unclear what path the band will take in the future.
In 2003, they changed their name to the simpler Afrocelts; however, two of their latest albums, Pod, a compilation of new mixes of songs from the first four albums, and their fifth studio album Anatomic uses the long and familiar form. This decision is apparently informed by the fact that they are well-known as Afro Celt Sound System.
Onwards
Afro Celt Sound System Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
"koumamagnin" which in Malinke means talk or language.
In this song, N'Faly conveys that words and language can be a bad and
Dangerous thing if not used wisely. Words can lead to war, death, the end
Of romantic relationships and cause division between people. Therefore,
Words should be used in a cautionary way.
Griots are the storytellers of their tribes and in their bardic role pass
On the history of their people orally from one generation to the next. The
Griots really control words and talk, in a sense, by owning the stories and
The histories of generations of people as their caste and responsibility.
Even today, the vastness of the connections and the knowledge of the people
Of West Africa is attributable to the Griots. So, "koumamagnin" is a
Concept taken very seriously by the Griots and people of West Africa.)
The Afro Celt Sound System's song Onwards presents an insightful message on the power of words and language. Through the repetitive use of the Malinke word "koumamagnin," N'Faly conveys that words are not just mere sounds, but have the power to shape the world around us. Language can be a double-edged sword, capable of causing great destruction but also capable of amplifying the beauty and wonder of life. The song is an ode to the wisdom of cautionary language.
N'Faly asserts that words can have a negative impact when used carelessly, leading to war and causing the end of relationships. He suggests that words can cause division and hurt, and that it is important to be mindful of the words we use. At the same time, words and language can be incredibly beautiful, and the way they are used can have a profound impact on the listener. Through the Griots, who serve as the national storytellers in West Africa, knowledge and history are passed down from generation to generation, showing the importance of responsible language use.
The message of Onwards is a powerful one, and it highlights the responsibility that humans have when it comes to communication. The song reveals the impact that our words have on the world around us and reminds us of the importance of mindful language use. It is not just idle chatter we engage in; it's a power that should be used responsibly.
Line by Line Meaning
Koumamagnin hówó ná
Language is both powerful and potentially dangerous
Koumamagnin hówó ná,
Language can be a double-edged sword
Aláránmí ayé wó
It can bring about conflict and even war
Oríré at'ójojà ń lọ
Words can also cause the end of relationships and divide people
Aláránmí ayé wó
Words carry immense power
Adúrà láti ìkòkòro owó
It is important to use language with caution and care
Koumamagnin hówó ná
Language is a serious matter
Koumamagnin hówó ná
Language can also be beautiful and inspiring
Èyí tó kún fún kà
The Griots are the guardians of language and storytelling
Ó tún mú mọ́ra lé àwọn òyìnbó
They pass on the history and wisdom of their people from generation to generation
Koumamagnin hówó ná
Language is a deeply ingrained part of West African culture
Èyí tó kún fún kà
The Griots have a special responsibility to use language wisely and with care
Ó tún fẹ́ tá rú ń họ́
Their knowledge and connections have made a significant contribution to West African society
Koumamagnin hówó ná
Language should be treated with respect and reverence
Contributed by Alexandra O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.