Julius Malema turns to music
2010-11-11 10:07
Johannesburg - Julius Malema, the leader of the ANC Youth League, is now using gospel music to drive his political agenda.
It's not just any gospel music either, but that of DJ Oskido, who writes gospel lyrics to the rhythm of lively dance music suitable for nightclubs.
The song Nationalisation is an appeal to President Jacob Zuma to nationalise the mines. But unlike Malema's previous struggle songs, this one is not aggressive.
It appears on Oskido's newest album, Church Grooves: 10th Commandment.
Oskido explained on Wednesday why it was culturally more appropriate to direct a song like this to the ANC.
Respect
"In our African culture, young people have to behave in a certain way towards older people. You can't just ask for something, you have to do it in a specific, respectful manner."
"The song therefore goes: 'Please, mister president, let's talk about this nationalisation. Can you please listen to us young people?"
The song, which is sung by Winnie Khumalo, includes a soft chorus, which goes: " Siyacela baba, siyacela Msholozi." It means "please, father, please Msholozi (Zuma's tribal name)."
Malema produced the song with Pule Mabe, treasurer general of the youth league.
Earlier this year, he had asked aspiring musicians to come up with political songs suitable for nightclubs.
"Malema came to me and asked if I could help him to write this kind of song," said Oskido. "It was therefore a joint attempt."
Oskido said Malema and Mabe wouldn't make money out of the CD sales and wouldn't get any royalties.
