Eyuphuro

For most people, Mozambique conjures up images of tragedy: war, famine, and millions of refugees living on food aid. The other side of this young southern African nation, rich in art and culture, is hardly ever seen.

From the start, the group Eyuphuro’s leaders —Zena Bacar and Gimo Remane— made a concerted effort to preserve the traditional rhythms of their home in Nampula.

Their birthplace, Illa de Mozambique, was historically one of Africa’s most cosmopolitan commercial centres and Eyuphuro’s music reflects a blend of myriad musical influences, as African traditions meet elements of Arabic and Latin styles.

From these roots Eyuphuro wrote contemporary songs of love and social criticism, a sharply perceived commentary on life in Mozambique.

Often referred to as the ‘golden voice of Mozambique’, Zena Bacar’s philosophical view of the world fed Eyuphuro’s contemporary songs of love and social criticism, providing a sharply observed commentary on life in Mozambique and particularly the inequalities faced by women in that society.

Zena Bacar passed away in January 2017.

Further reading

Will Gregory: new music on Real World X – Lost In The Forest

Lost In The Forest: Music from the RSC’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is the music Gregory created...

Spafford Campbell sign to Real World Records and announce album Tomorrow Held

The duo previously released the EP 102 Metres East on Real World X.

Track of the day: ‘First Light’ by Eliza Marshall

Eliza Marshall releases the second track from her forthcoming New Birth EP. The track is called Firs...

Exploring Colombian artist Savan’s music inspired by Yagé medicine ceremonies

The new Real World X release is an eight-track aural journey to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.