Kumalo.com

Check this out! I have had a hard time containing myself even as I write. That is because I am listening to some gems from Kumalo.com African Music Online. Here you will have the joy and pleasure of listening and viewing the full video clips of current pop and traditional music from the Great Lakes— including in Acoli, Dhuluo, Luganda and even Madi, etc. And, it is free! I have no idea what the business model is, but there is something about Lonely Hearts!

While many of the videos are relatively low visual quality Kumalo.com and associates are on the right track. Some of the dancers look really trashy, but there are a few gems.

The oil smooth voices of Mariam Ndagire, Lady Namu Mariam and Sarah Zawedde stole ma (sic) heart. They are in the league of the greatest crooner of all times: the one and only Rochereau. Lady Mariam’s story in Tinda Tine brought memories of the writer’s own adventures in the bush while tending cattle in his youth days. You wish you understood the language to get the unfolding love affair. But not to worry—you will get the idea!

Nya Pajule, Ruphina D’Nyeko deserves a special mention for her Cuna Kara Tek and Alcoholism. Her poetic ability shows up in lines such as “Ogwalpok ojem i kum twol. Twol ojem i kum Ogwalpok” Interpret that!

Our sista, Chelina in Madi Home Boyz was to be expected--a disappointment. Some cultures and languages should not try their hands at modern pop—pure and simple. I couldn’t see the video to the end. Check it yourself.

Another disappointment to me was Bosmic Otim. What is that military fatigue outfit all about? The gangster look and the bloodshot eyes may be appealing to some of his fans. In Politics of Revenge, which is what greets you as you enter the website, I thought I was listening and seeing a re-incarnation of Lucky Dube. Bosmic, if you are going to borrow, at least be creatively subtle about it. However, I have got to give to you: the message in the lyric is apt and poignant.

I have not checked the Gospel Music page. If you are into that kind of music, check it out.

I have saved Coltekwaro for last. It also has its own section, and most of the video contents are new shots. If you have Coltekwaro DVDs, you will notice some old clips of Aguma and Pawidi Boys. A funeral is a heavy topic, but the clip of the funeral dirge will haunt you awake and get you off your fanny to kick some dusts.

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