Billy Kaunda comforts Cyclone Freddy survivors with song

M

usician-cum-parliamentarian Billy Kaunda has re-recorded Simuli Nokha, a song originally done by the late Chicco Kalirani, to uplift the spirits of those affected by Tropical Cyclone Freddy.

In an interview yesterday, the veteran musician said he decided to remake the song because its message resonates with what is happening in Malawi.

“Art is powerful in that it can be done in a way that can uplift and encourage the saddest of souls. Also, there are times when one needs to just listen to something that inspires hope and this is that time,” he said.

Kaunda said the song is a prayer to the Lord for the situation and pleading with all the people to support and comfort the affected.

He said: “It is very difficult to give those affected a special message. All I can say is that we are with them during these trying times. I also pray that those responsible for disbursing aid should be fair and not steal donations because there is some real suffering happening.”

The song takes the form of a prayer in which the message is encouraging and talking about God’s mercy and grace upon his people. It adds a touch of modernity with the acoustic guitar, the saxophone and the bass that are prominent.

“Tiyeni abale, tigwilane manja, kuthandiza omwe zawagwera, zovutazi. Chauta watipatsa ntchito, tiwathandize, ….Mulungu alipo, amasamala, tonse tiyang’ane kwa iye, amayankha..” goes the song in part. 

Simuli Nokha was produced with the help of Lulu who played the acoustic guitar, Victor Kambona played the keyboards, Chifundo Katsekera played the bass guitar and Dan Sibale handled the saxophone. Backing vocals were offered by Chisomo and Chinsinsi Kambwiri.

“The video for the song has been shot and produced by Blacknoise,” said Kaunda.

He said they will distribute the song for free mainly via social media.

On his part, Lulu said he is honoured to have been part of the song’s production.