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

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