Paul Simon

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Homeless album cover

Homeless

Paul Simon

Lyrics

11 ContributorsHomeless LyricsEmaweni webaba
Silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni

Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni
Webaba silale maweni

Homeless, homeless
Moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake
Homeless, homeless
Moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake
Said we are homeless, we are homeless
The moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake
And we are homeless, homeless, homeless
The moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake

Ziyo yami, ziyo yami, nhliziyo yami
Nhliziyo yami amakhaza asengi bulele
Nhliziyo yami, nhliziyo yami
Nhliziyo yami, angibulele amakhaza
Nhliziyo yami, nhliziyo yami
Nhliziyo yami somandla angibulele mama
Zio yami, nhliziyo yami
Nhliziyo yami, nhliziyo yami
You might also likeToo loo loo, too loo loo
Too loo loo loo loo loo loo loo loo loo
Too loo loo, too loo loo
Too loo loo loo loo loo loo loo loo loo

Strong wind destroy our home
Many dead, tonight it could be you
Strong wind, strong wind
Many dead, tonight it could be you

And we are homeless, homeless
Moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake
And we are homeless, homeless
Moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake
Homeless, homeless
Moonlight sleeping on a midnight lake

Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody sing hello, hello, hello
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody cry why, why, why?
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody sing hello, hello, hello
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody cry why, why, why?
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Yitho omanqoba (Ih hih ih hih ih) yitho omanqoba
Esanqoba lonke ilizwe (Ih hih ih hih ih)
Yitho omanqoba (Ih hih ih hih ih)
Esanqoba phakathi e England
Yitho omanqoba
Esanqoba phakathi e London
Yitho omanqoba
Esanqoba phakathi e England

Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody sing hello, hello, hello
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody cry why, why, why?
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody sing hello, hello, hello
Somebody say ih hih ih hih ih
Somebody cry why, why, why?

Kulumani
Kuluman, Kulumani sizwe
Singenze njani
Baya jabula abasi thanda yo
Ho

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Homeless by Paul Simon is a beautifully crafted song that features Joseph Shabalala and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The song was released in 1986 on the album Graceland and has remained a fan favorite for over three decades. Performing this song live is still very popular and ensures a great reception from the audience.

About Homeless

The song Homeless is a reflection of Paul Simon's experience with South African music and culture during a period where the Apartheid regime in the country was at its peak. Simon, who has been known to explore different cultures and genres, decided to take a trip to South Africa in 1985 after listening to a cassettes tape of local music. He was fascinated by the rhythm, harmonies, and unique sound of the South African music, which inspired him to create the album Graceland, of which Homeless is a part.

The song opens up with the sweet sound of Joseph Shabalala's unique tenor voice singing in Zulu. The verse is powerful, and it sets up the mood for the rest of the song. The pre-chorus, which is sung in English, is like a response to the verse. It captures the agony and desperation of the homeless person. Paul Simon's delicate guitar notes accompany the vocals throughout the song, creating an emotional and haunting melody.

The chorus of the song, which is performed by Ladysmith Black Mambazo, is probably the most memorable part of the song. The harmonies and the melody create a beautiful combination, which is synonymous with South African music. The repetition of "We are homeless, homeless," in the chorus emphasizes the pain and suffering of those without a place to call home.

The song's structure is quite unique, and it showcases the versatility of African music. The song starts with a verse, followed by a pre-chorus, and then a chorus. The progression is then repeated, and then we have a completely different section, which is the bridge. The bridge is performed by Paul Simon, and it's a beautiful addition to the song. The section is in English, and it paints a picture of hope and freedom.

The song's message is powerful and poignant, and it speaks to the social issues of homelessness and displacement. Paul Simon captures the essence of what it means to be homeless and the struggles that come with it. The song speaks to the heart and reminds us to be grateful for what we have and to be empathetic towards those who are suffering.

In addition to its powerful message, Homeless is a fine example of how different cultures can be brought together to create a beautiful work of art. The mixture of Zulu and English languages, coupled with the diverse African rhythms and harmonies, make this song a unique masterpiece.

In summation, Homeless is a song that will remain relevant for years to come. Paul Simon's musical genius is evident in this piece, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of social responsibility. The message is powerful, and the music is beautiful. Homeless is a must-listen for anyone who loves good music and has a passion for creating a better world.

  • Release Date: September 1, 1986
  • Artist: Paul Simon