Semba

Semba is a traditional type of music from the Southern-African country of Angola. Semba comes from the singular Masemba, meaning "a touch of the bellies", a move that characterizes the Semba dance.

Characteristics

Semba is very much alive and popular in Angola today as it was long before that country's independence from the Portuguese colonial system on November 11, 1975. Various new Semba artists emerge each year in Angola, as they render homage to the veteran Semba masters, many of whom are still performing. Other styles related to the Semba is Kizomba, Rebita, as well as Kazukuta and Kabetula which are primarily Carnaval Music.

The subject matter of Semba is often a cautionary tale or story regarding day-to-day life and social events and activities, usually sung in a witty rhetoric. Through Semba music, the artist is able to convey a broad spectrum of emotions. It is this characteristic that has made Semba the premiere style of music for a wide variety of Angolan social gatherings. Its versatility is evident in its inevitable presence at funerals and, on the other hand, many Angolan parties.

Podcasts:

PLAYLIST TIME:

Say Maybe

by: Neil Diamond

Why make me plead
For what I need
And I need you
Why, why make me weep
Cry in my sleep
Cause I need you
Say maybe
Won't you even say sometime, baby
Won't you never say lovin' words again
Say baby
Don't you know I'm a fool about you
If I tried, I could live without you
For maybe a day (maybe a day)
I, I've been around
Finally found
And I need you
And I, I know what I got
And I got a lot




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