Say
Hoyle Lyrics
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We knew the blessing in you all along
Humble beginnings
Blurring the lines
Boldly defying the signs of the time
When the old world wouldn't die for the new to be born
You shone a light in the dark as we waited for dawn
Father and friend
Warrior, worker, African gem
Now you've crossed the dark mountains
You put down your load
The wisdom you wove in our hearts will never grow old
Though the world that we know will never be the same
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
The dust of the dancer still hangs in Olduvai
Have you discovered who made us here and why?
Your weighted words they inspired the land
Holding us all in the palm of your hand
Now you've crossed the dark mountains
You put down your load
The wisdom you wove in our hearts will never grow old
Though the world that we know will never be the same
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
Inkunzi isedlulile
Lezontaba ezimnyama
Lala ngokuthula
Qhawe lethu
Inkunzi isidlulile
Lezontaba ezimnyama
Lala ngokuthula
Qhawe lethu
Now at last you're free as the wind the grass
How did you journey so deep into all of our hearts?
Third World survivor, the owl's still calling your name
And I know you're dancing with Dudu again
Now you've crossed the dark mountains
You put down your load
The wisdom you wove in our hearts will never grow old
Though the world that we know will never be the same
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
You put down your load
The wisdom you wove in our hearts will never grow old
Although the world that we know will never be the same
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
Lala ngokuthula qhawe lethu
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
At its core, Hoyle's song "Say" is a tribute to a beloved figure who has passed away. The lyrics convey the sentiment that sometimes we fail to appreciate what we have until it is gone. The line "They say you don't know what you got until it is gone" reflects this notion. The singer acknowledges that they had always recognized the blessing that this person was, despite the humble beginnings they may have come from. This individual defied societal expectations and limitations, boldly pushing against the confines of the time.
The song pays homage to the impact this person had on others, referring to them as a mentor to millions, a father figure, a friend, and a warrior worker. The lyrics describe them as an African gem, suggesting that they were a source of immense value and inspiration. The singer mourns their loss, acknowledging that although this person has crossed over, the wisdom they infused in people's hearts will endure. However, the world will never be the same without them. The song seeks to grapple with the difficult question of how one can bid farewell to something so essential and influential, likening it to saying goodbye to the African rain, a symbol of life and vitality.
Overall, "Say" is a heartfelt tribute that highlights the impact of a remarkable individual and explores the struggle of accepting their absence. It recognizes their significance, celebrates their contributions, and expresses the profound void left in their wake.
Line by Line Meaning
They say you don't know what you got until it is gone
The world often fails to appreciate something valuable until it is lost
We knew the blessing in you all along
We recognized and appreciated the goodness in you from the beginning
Humble beginnings
You started your journey with modesty and humility
Blurring the lines
You challenged societal boundaries, pushing against limitations
Boldly defying the signs of the time
Fearlessly going against the prevailing norms and expectations
When the old world wouldn't die for the new to be born
During a time when the existing order resisted change and progress
You shone a light in the dark as we waited for dawn
You brought hope and guidance to us in difficult times
Mentor to millions
You acted as a teacher and guide for countless individuals
Father and friend
You provided paternal care and friendship to those around you
Warrior, worker, African gem
You were a fearless fighter, diligent in your work, and a precious asset to Africa
Now you've crossed the dark mountains
You have transcended the challenges and hardships of life
You put down your load
You have released the burdens you carried throughout your journey
The wisdom you wove in our hearts will never grow old
The knowledge and insights you imparted on us will endure forever
Though the world that we know will never be the same
The world we inhabit has forever changed due to your absence
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
How do we bid farewell to the natural beauty and essence of Africa?
The dust of the dancer still hangs in Olduvai
The memory of the vibrant and graceful dancer lingers in Olduvai
Have you discovered who made us here and why?
Did you find answers to the question of our origin and purpose?
Your weighted words they inspired the land
Your profound words ignited inspiration within the nation
Holding us all in the palm of your hand
Guiding and nurturing everyone with your caring touch
Now at last you're free as the wind the grass
Finally, you have attained the freedom and liberation you deserve
How did you journey so deep into all of our hearts?
How did you manage to touch and connect with each of us so profoundly?
Third World survivor, the owl's still calling your name
You remained resilient despite the challenges of the Third World, and your legacy continues to be recognized
And I know you're dancing with Dudu again
I believe you have reunited with Dudu, engaging in joyful dance
You put down your load
You have released the burdens you carried throughout your journey
Although the world that we know will never be the same
Even though the world has irrevocably changed in your absence
How do you say goodbye to the African rain?
How do we bid farewell to the natural beauty and essence of Africa?
Lala ngokuthula qhawe lethu
Rest peacefully, our hero
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Andy Hoyle
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind