World Cup 2010 song: the original version and, boy, is it SUPERDUPER COOL!

WORLD CUP SHOCKER! So Sony have blocked access to this video now, which I think is a bit crap and not at all in the spirit of a wonderful world sporting event such as the World Cup. By being able to view this video, loads of people — myself included –  would come across Zangalewa and sought out their albums afterwards. Shame on you, Sony!

This vid of the original version of the song that Shakira and Freshly Ground are performing as the World Cup 2010 ditty is so cool. So says the bright spark on Youtube, kamay81, who put it up: “Zangalewa” is a 1986 hit song , originally sung by the band “Golden Sounds” from CAMEROON. The band changed the name to ZANGALEWA due to the popularity of the song in Africa and abroad. The song pays tribute to african skirmishers (a.k.a tirailleurs) during WW2. Most of the band members were in the Cameroonian Army themselves and used make up, fake belly and fake butt for comic relief. The song is still used today by soldiers, policemen, boy scouts, sportsmen and their supporters, usually during training or for rallying.”Zangalewa” means “Who sent you” as a soldier would ask to an opponent.” The remixed World Cup version is a tad over produced and, personally, I don’t think it half captures the joy of the original but I love this tune and it’s already getting me in the mood for the tournament.