Niko Mchumba Ngobe Phil Ochs

"Niko Mchumba Ngobe" by Phil Ochs is a folk song from 1969 that explores themes of social justice, resilience, and the struggles of the oppressed. The lyrics convey a message of hope and determination amidst adversity. Ochs' use of vivid imagery and storytelling enhances its emotional impact. His work has influenced folk music's role in activism. #Folk

Pre
D g a
Niko mchunga ngombe (I take care of cows)
D g a
Niko mchunga ngombe (I take care of cows)
G
Sasa sasa (now now)
A d
Twende mbele (let's go ahead)

Chakula haina taabu (food is no problem)
Tunana mbuzi tunakula (we kill goats and we eat)
Niko mchunga ngombe (I take care of cows)
Sasa sasa (now now)
Twende mbele (let's go ahead)

Nguo haina taabu (clothes are no problem)
Tunauza ngombe sokomi (we sell cows at the market)

Taabu tunavumilia (problems...we perservere)
Niko mchunga ngombe (I take care of cows)
Sasa sasa (now now)
Twende mbele (let's go ahead)

Maisha hapita (life will pass)
Sisi tutazeeka (we will get old)
Natoto wangu watalinda ngombe (my children will take care of the cows)
Niko mchunga ngombe (I take care of cows)
Sasa sasa (now now)
Twende mbele (let's go ahead)

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