Guest vocalists on Mr. Freedom, include two-time Grammy and Tony winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater, former Orange Juice vocalist Edwyn Collins and even Dee Dee Bridgewater's daughter, China Moses. In addition, this specially sequenced US version features the added bonus of Italian Latin-dance maestro Nicola Conte (his groovy "Bossa Per Due" was used in a well-known Acura commercial). Here Conte caps off the album with an electrifying, extended live sextet version of "Into My Soul." Together this session of guest artists take the Gabin sound from punchy, Art Of Noise-esque rock, to sensual slow jams, to new takes on their signature mixture of groove-filled vibes.
Gabin’s music can be found across the media world: the compilation CD Hotel Costes, cult TV shows like HBO’s Sex And The City and Six Feet Under and high-profile TV commercials for Polaroid and Cinemax. Gabin’s new album, Mr. Freedom marks the first release since the band’s ingenious remix of Peggy Lee's "Fever,” a highlight of the Pink Panther's Penthouse Party CD.
Gabin have left behind the cocktail vibes of their first release, stepped up the beat and released a breathtaking new album combining uptempo jazzy flair with a touch of soul.
Àfrica
Gabin Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Rich in vibrancy
Land of colours and light
Birthed to be free
Named in honour
Wisdom handed over
From generations past
Benediction to the paths
The lyrics of "Africa" by Gabin ft. Lisa Lore describe the beauty, culture, and heritage of Africa. The continent is depicted as a place of vibrancy and colors, despite often being associated with darkness and poverty. The lyrics celebrate the resilience of African people as they inherited wisdom from their ancestors and fought for liberation. The song highlights the importance of recognizing Africa's contributions to human civilization and treating its people with respect and admiration.
The first verse begins with a reference to darkness, but quickly shifts to emphasize the richness and vibrancy of the African landscape. The use of the word "colours" in the second line suggests that Africa is a place of diversity and variety. The third line, "Land of colours and light," is a metaphor for Africa's ability to shine brightly despite its many challenges. The final line of the verse, "Birthed to be free," speaks to Africa's history of fighting for independence from colonial powers and striving for self-determination.
The second verse focuses on Africa's cultural heritage and wisdom. The phrase "Named in honour" suggests a deep respect for the traditions and customs of African people. The line "Wisdom handed over" acknowledges the passing down of knowledge and wisdom from one generation to the next. The reference to "Liberation" and "salutation" in the third and fourth lines speaks to Africa's ongoing struggle for freedom and the importance of honoring those who fought for it. The verse ends with a reference to "Benediction to the paths," which could be interpreted as a prayer for guidance and direction as Africa continues to navigate its complex history and future.
Overall, the lyrics of "Africa" celebrate the beauty, culture, and resilience of Africa and its people. The song is a call to recognize Africa's contributions to global culture and history and to treat its people with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Line by Line Meaning
From the darkness
Emerging from the depths of despair
Rich in vibrancy
Abounding in lively energy
Land of colours and light
A place where brilliant hues and illumination thrive
Birthed to be free
Created with the purpose of existing without restraint
Named in honour
Acknowledged with respect and gratitude
Wisdom handed over
Knowledge passed down through generations
From generations past
From the ancestral heritage of the past
Liberation to salutation
Freedom leading to celebration
Benediction to the paths
A blessing bestowed upon the journey
Contributed by Alyssa D. Suggest a correction in the comments below.