He assumed the throne of Cajor
And became well-known for his festive reign
Where every occasion was reason for
Celebration in great style
Having inherited a rich oral tradition
He encouraged local musicians
And his patronage gave rise to the flourishing of
The music known as mbaboor
Ah! Birima!
A day spent in your presence
Was the picture of hospitality!
This music was transmitted by the griots
Who painted vivid portraits of the kingdom
Mbaboor became inextricably linked
To the history of Cajor
Most importantly, it forged a new and enduring link
Between royalty and the common people
Where relations had been different before
As the classes lived and struggled and
Celebrated together
Common experience allowed them to identify
With one another
Ah! Birima!
A day spent in your presence
Was the picture of hospitality!
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written by N'Dour, Youssou / N'Dour, Youssou / Antoinette, Marie / Jean, Nel Wyclef / Ndoumbe Mbaye, Ndeye
Lyrics © EMI Music Publishing