Alternative hip-hop duo PS The ReBels consists of brothers Pihon Kalonji and SamUiLL Kalonji, who are originally from Nairobi, Kenya. Currently based in L.A., their music is a combination of worldly entertainment alongside content that seeks to raise awareness. Their inspiring and illustrious art has been well received on the international stage – they’ve performed alongside artists like Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu, Ziggy Marley, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, Slaughterhouse, and Immortal Technique.
Their most recent release is a single titled Bumaye, an African-inspired, rallying cry of a track that’s wonderfully percussion heavy and a brilliant blend of both modern hip hop sounds and culturally relevant rhythms.
Conceptually, Bumaye is a reference to the famous “Rumble in the Jungle” boxing match-up between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. The message in this track is clearly influenced by this event as an uplifting and encouraging cry for the underdog, praising perseverance and hard work. The lyrics are succinct and clear in their phrasing:
“This to the hustlers.
Bumaye! Bumaye!
This for the grinders.
Bumaye! Bumaye!
My all time survivors.
Bumaye! Bumaye!
Yeah, whatever you do go kill em.”
The brothers are also joined by Congolese-American artist Kajad on this track – the band tells us that the original meaning of bumaye is “kill ’em” in Lingala, a language that is native to the Congo. They also include references to the language of Kiswahili, spoken in Kenya, where the brothers Kalonji are from. The track, therefore, is tri-lingual, but you don’t need to speak a word of any of these languages to appreciate the energy and power behind this music.
A compelling fusion of beautiful culture, energetic music, and an inspiring message. Bumaye will have you on your feet dancing while simultaneously lifting your spirits with its rallying, battle-cry feel. PS The ReBels‘s newest single will premiere worldwide on November 27th, available everywhere digital music is sold – mark your calendars now and check your favorite music platform on Friday!
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BELOW: Listen to Bumaye, and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support PS The ReBels by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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