Ayy...
John Musonda, my brother, hear my voice.
Muli shani, Kaboke... (yoh!)
Let me tell you about your genesis.
Born in ninety-seven, number seven of nine,
Kwali insala, times were hard but you survived.
Twaliponenwe ne chipowe, hunger was real,
But Mayo never gave up, looking for our meal.
On the eighth of July, she walked to Banani,
To dig wild roots in the bush, working for many.
Labor pain start in the forest, she run go home,
Strong African mother, she was never alone!
Happy birthday to you, John!
Happy birthday, Kapama!
Happy birthday, Kaboke!
They shouted "Kapama!" when you were born,
A blessing from the roots, now the struggle is gone!
Happy birthday, my brother, God bless your new year!
Ba Noria, Mrs Shiyala, and Ba Ronah came out,
(May their souls rest in peace) they began to shout!
"Kapama! Kapama!" they sang for the child,
Born from the roots of the forest so wild.
Mayo used to papa you on your special day,
Now she's resting with the Lord, but we still pray.
I am your sister, and I sing this for you,
God bless your journey, everything you do.
Happy birthday to you, John!
Happy birthday, Kapama!
Happy birthday, Kaboke!
They shouted "Kapama!" when you were born,
A blessing from the roots, now the struggle is gone!
Happy birthday, my brother, God bless your new year!
Mayo is smiling from heaven above,
We miss her so much, she gave us pure love.
Happy birthday John, my brother...
Kaboke! Kapama! Ayy...
God bless your new year.