Fountain
Vusi Mahlasela Lyrics

The lyrics of Vusi Mahlasela’s song “Fountain” paint a picture of a utopian past, where people lived carefree lives full of happiness and love, under the open skies. However, as time goes by and human nature takes over, people become more selfish and isolated from one another, leading to a loss of human rights and an inner turmoil. In this context, the chorus “Namhl'elamanqamu” is a plea for guidance and direction, asking the fountain to lead people back to the wells of love, which seems to be the only solution to the problems faced by humanity.

One of the most interesting aspects of the song is the use of the word “Namhl'elamanqamu”, which translates to “fountain” in English. The word is derived from Zulu, one of the many languages spoken in South Africa. The tune of the song is rooted in traditional African rhythms, with a mix of soul, folk, and jazz influences. The use of African percussion instruments such as djembe and kalimba adds an authentic flavor to the song.

“Fountain” was released in 1997 as part of Vusi Mahlasela’s album “Guiding Star”, which received critical acclaim and helped establish him as one of the leading voices of the South African music scene. The song has a universal appeal, and its message of hope and love has resonated with audiences beyond the borders of South Africa. The song has also been used in various movies, documentaries, and TV shows, including the 2001 romantic comedy “Someone Like You” and the 2012 episode of “Breaking Bad”.