His biggest hits from the 1950s include "Portuguese Washerwomen", "Sam's Song", a cover of Del Wood's version of "Down Yonder", and the international hit "Zambezi". Some of the singles include his vocal backup group, the cleverly named The Carr Hopps. Often overlooked are several mainstream and jazz sides he recorded as Lou Busch, featuring exciting band or orchestral arrangements.
One Busch collaboration with Milton DeLugg, "Rollercoaster", became the closing theme of the TV panel show What's My Line? for the entirety of its original network run, from 1950 to 1967.
Zambesi
Lou Busch Lyrics
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Zambesi
The lyrics in Lou Busch & His Orchestra's song Zambezi are few, but they convey the exotic allure and mysterious power of the Zambezi river. The repetition of "Zambesi, zambesi, zambesi, za" creates a hypnotic rhythm that evokes the flowing waters of the river. The use of the word "za" at the end emphasizes the foreignness of the place, as if the singer is transported to a faraway land. The name "Zambezi" itself comes from the Shona language spoken in Zimbabwe and means "great river."
The Zambezi River is the fourth-longest river in Africa, and it is known for its magnificent Victoria Falls, which are considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. The song captures the excitement and wonder of those falls, as well as the awe-inspiring nature of the river itself. The rushing waters of the Zambezi have inspired musicians, artists, and writers for generations, and Busch's song is one of many works that attempt to capture their beauty.
Overall, the lyrics to Zambezi may be simple, but they are effective in creating an atmosphere of mystery and wonder around the river. They invite the listener to imagine themselves standing at the banks of the mighty Zambezi, gazing out at the rushing water and feeling the power of nature around them.
Line by Line Meaning
Zambesi, zambesi, zambesi, za
Zambesi, the river flowing through Africa, is being celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement
The river of might, the river so wide
The Zambesi river is known for its impressive size and power
The river of Africa, that's where I reside
The singer identifies with Africa and sees the Zambesi as a symbol of this connection
Zambesi, Zambesi, it's calling to me
The singer is drawn to the river and feels a strong connection to it
The heart of Africa, it sets my soul free
The Zambesi is a symbol of freedom and represents the essence of Africa to the singer
The crocodiles snap, the hippos they growl
The Zambesi is home to dangerous animals, such as crocodiles and hippos
But nothing can stop me, I'm on the prowl
Despite the danger, the singer is undeterred and eager to explore the river
Zambesi, Zambesi, it's calling my name
The singer feels a personal connection to the Zambesi and is excited to explore it further
The river of passion, it fuels the flame
The Zambesi is a source of inspiration and creativity for the singer
Zambesi, Zambesi, it's calling me home
The singer feels a deep sense of belonging to the Zambesi and to Africa as a whole
The river that carries me where I roam
The Zambesi is a symbol of freedom and adventure for the singer, who feels at home wherever it takes them
Writer(s): Anton De Waal, Nico Carstens
Contributed by Kaelyn T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@ronaldstrange8981
I was was twenty years' old in 1956, and now, aged 88 in 2025, still remember with affection this wonderful recording. I did buy the 78rpm recording. England, January, 2025.
@williamhenry9609
Fantastic number - still listening 70 years later. I'm 96 tomorrow, and will play this before I blow out the candles.
@OldiesAl
Have a very happy birthday William and many more to come 👏🎉
@maryrawson4324
Well, hope you had a lovely birthday...and hope you can still blow out the candles next year xxxx
@shailendrasingh2016
Shadows did brilliant cover guitar
@mikewoehrle6781
@@OldiesAlkeep rockin all the very best danke
@shailendrasingh2016
Take it up to heaven
@mariannelenihan
It's my 70th birthday today and this is the first song I wanted to listen to which reminds me of my childhood. Love it!
@stuartpearson2993
Many happy returns
@alanoneill3065
same here