Birima Songtext

von Youssou N’Dour

He assumed the throne of Cajor

And became well-known for his festive reign

Where every occasion was reason for

Celebration in great style
Having inherited a rich oral tradition
He encouraged local musicians

And his patronage gave rise to the flourishing of

The music known as mbaboor
Ah! Birima!
A day spent in your presence
Was the picture of hospitality!
This music was transmitted by the griots
Who painted vivid portraits of the kingdom

Mbaboor became inextricably linked

To the history of Cajor

Most importantly, it forged a new and enduring link
Between royalty and the common people
Where relations had been different before
As the classes lived and struggled and
Celebrated together
Common experience allowed them to identify
With one another
Ah! Birima!
A day spent in your presence
Was the picture of hospitality!