Mulema Mwam
The journey into Makossa starts here.
Music genres have theme songs, there's the happy song, sad song, party song and such. Like other genres, Makossa has a love song, "Mulema Mwam" by Eboa Lotin. Whenever I think of a love song, I first think of "Mulema Mwam". The song is old, it was released in the 1960s. It is one of the earliest Makossa recordings and a foundational song in the genre. The song is lovely in simple ways, a guitar composition, a good bass, covered with passionate vocals. In the Makossa genre, this song is the expression of love.
I wish I could attach a meaningful story to this song but that's not needed. The song presents itself well. About 7 years ago, I tried learning the guitar so I bought a nylon string guitar. I wanted to learn how to play this song. Life got busy so I didn't get far with my guitar practice. However, as it stands to this day, "Mulema Mwam" is the only song that I have ever wanted to play on the guitar.
For those starting a journey into Makossa, I will list my ten entry songs.
- Mulema Mwam
- Douala, O mulema
- Minya Ma Bobe
- Francoise
- Dikom Lam La Moto
- Bijou
- Epapala
- Konkai Makossa
- Ngoa Mbengue
- Na Mea Longue
There can be an endless discussion on what songs belong on this list. This list is based on my musical taste. I have no need to justify my choices.
To the expression of love, to love that we know and feel, to the people who bring love in our lives, and
with love and joy, we love and enjoy "Mulema Mwam".