Malaika
- Written by
- Fadhili William
- Language
- Swahili
- ISWC
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T-903.591.258-4 ISWC
- Comments
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The title meaning 'angel' or 'darling', this is probably the best known East African/Swahili song. There are versions with slightly differing lyrics and variations of the title, f. ex. "Ewe Malaika". The song has been recorded by numerous artists from all around the world and there are various translations.
Always insisting on his authorship and also providing a detailed description of the circumstances under which he wrote it, Kenyan musician Fadhili William is generally recognized as the composer/writer. His authorship has been disputed, though.
Some claim the song was written by Tanzanian songwriter Adam Salim while working as a mechanic in Nairobi in 1945/46. He is said to have written the song for his girlfriend after the parents of both disapproving their relationship.
Producer Charles Worrod credits the song to Grant Charo, William's brother-in-law, who is not known to have confirmed this. Also Lucas Tututu from Mombasa claims to have written the song.
In any case, William was the first to record "Malaika". - Published by
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EQUATOR SALES
GEMA
- Licensing
- Request a synchronization license