Shakira’s “Waka Waka”: Homage, Appropriation, or a Legacy Restored?

Singer Shakira performs “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” with South African band Freshlyground during the Closing Ceremony ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Final match between Netherlands and Spain. Image credit: Getty Images, Photo by: Clive Rose.
Published by: Rorisang Masenya

Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” was a global sensation, but its legacy has become intertwined with accusations of uncredited borrowing from the iconic Cameroonian song, “Zamina mina (Zangalewa).” The recent resurgence of the original track, fueled by social media platforms like Instagram Reels, has reignited the debate surrounding the origins of Shakira’s anthem.

The Cameroonian Roots

“Zangalewa” was a 1986 hit by Golden Sounds (later Zangaléwa), a band remarkably composed of Cameroonian presidential guardsmen. The song’s infectious energy and playful lyrics, sung in Douala and various other dialects, made it a cornerstone of the Cameroonian ‘makossa’ genre. The central chant of “Zamina mina… Zangalewa” forms the strikingly similar base of Shakira’s “Waka Waka.”

Controversy and Revival

When “Waka Waka” became the official 2010 World Cup song, neither Shakira nor FIFA initially credited or compensated the Cameroonian creators. This ignited allegations of cultural appropriation, raising questions about whether Shakira’s use of the sounds and lyrics fell short of honouring their origin.

A decade later, “Zangalewa” has unexpectedly found a new life on Instagram Reels, its popularity detached from the controversy surrounding “Waka Waka”. This raises a broader question: did Shakira’s work, however problematic in origin, ultimately serve to revive the popularity of “Zangalewa” for a new generation?

Analysis and Interpretation

The line between homage and appropriation is often blurred. Shakira claims a collaborative process with African musicians and draws inspiration from Cameroonian sources. However, failing to directly acknowledge Golden Sounds as the source of her song’s defining refrain raises ethical concerns.

The resurgence of “Zangalewa” on its own merits underscores the enduring appeal of the original. While social media virality can be unpredictable, it serves as a reminder that the roots of popular music can often be traced back to sources that might have previously been overlooked by mainstream audiences.

We think…

The issue lies not in seeking inspiration from other cultures, but in the responsibility artists have when utilizing those inspirations. Ultimately, both Shakira and Golden Sounds have their place in this musical story. Whether “Waka Waka” serves as an example of problematic appropriation, a flawed form of homage, or an inadvertent path to revitalizing the original remains a matter for each listener to critically consider. Ultimately, it’s up to each listener to decide.

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