Kokolioko
"There is a long history of Liberian popular songs carrying socially understood messages
that shed light on historical processes. For example, nationally, one of the most famous Liberian
folk songs ever; 'Chicken Crowing for Day,' informed merry-makers that it was time to leave
the dance and head for home. This song is popularly known by the onomatopoetic title
'Kokolioko' which describes the sound of the rooster's crow early in the morning hours."
-From Politics and Popular Culture: The Renaissance in Liberian Music, 1970-89 by Timothy D. Nevin.
Kokolioko
Cock-a-doodle Doo!
Folk Song
Folk Song
(Liberian English)
(English)
Kokolioko,
Kokolioko,
Kokolioko,
Chicken deh crow for day.
Kokolioko,
Kokolioko,
Kokolioko,
Chicken deh crow for day.
Eh yah, eh yah!
Eh yah, chicken dey crow for day!
Eh yah, eh yah!
Eh yah, chicken dey crow for day!
Cock-a-doodle doo,
Cock-a-doodle doo,
Cock-a-doodle doo,
Chickens they crow for the day.
Cock-a-doodle doo,
Cock-a-doodle doo,
Cock-a-doodle doo,
Chickens they crow for the day.
Oh boy, oh boy!
Oh boy, chickens they crow for the day!
Oh boy, oh boy!
Oh boy, chickens they crow for the day!
Notes
"Eh yah" is an exclamation that's said in lamentation or remembrance according to Black Love Project.
Comments
"Kokolioko" is popular with choruses around the world.
Thanks!