To celebrate the fact that the South African National Anthem was named as the best national anthem in the world, people from around the country are making their own versions of the song… and this interpretation will give you the chills!
South Africa – Our anthem which, pieces together lyrics in Afrikaans‚ English‚ Xhosa‚ Zulu and Sesotho, combining an eponymous poem originally written as a prayer by late poet Enoch Sontonga and parts of South Africa’s former anthem, “Die Stem”, was hailed as “an act of musical healing”.
The Economist had an in-house poll deciding which country had the best National Anthem of them all. They looked at backstories and listened to them to make the final decision.
Countries like Russia, Brazil and Uruguay made the top of the list but none of them could beat the South African National Anthem.
Enoch Sontonga wrote the original in 1897, meaning that it celebrated 121 years this year. The song was adopted by South Africa in 1994.
“South Africa – In a straw poll at The Economist, this was the favourite. Taken from a protest hymn, the lyrics combine Afrikaans, English, Xhosa, Zulu and Sesotho in an act of musical healing for the Rainbow nation”
Our national anthem won this award because of its inclusivity and ability to bring people together.
And so, News24 and OUTsurance are calling all South African’s to be united by song and the spirit of Ubuntu in their Anthem project.
“We’re calling all South African’s to be united by song in our Anthem project. Share your rendition of the Anthem in song, music, dance or anyway that can creatively share your national pride. Schools, organisations, teams, families, friends and individuals are all welcome to create their own video. Upload your video, nominate a registered charity of your choice, get your friends and family to vote for your version of the anthem and you could win a chance to donate a share of R1 MILLION in cash and prizes to a charity of your choice.”
Hailing from a small town in Limpopo, the Ndlovu Youth Choir have made waves the world over after their isiZulu rendition of Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You went viral.
Since its inception in 2009, the choir has profoundly affected the lives of the choristers and demonstrates the potential of any human being to achieve excellence no matter their background, education or place of birth. From its humble beginnings as an after-school activity the choir has evolved into a truly outstanding professional ensemble.
Watch as they put their own unique spin on our national anthem, spreading good vibes and national pride all across the nation.
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