Zikii recalls genocide through ‘Owe Owe’
There are a lot of activities that have happened in Namibia – and to some extent, this has formed content for artists to spread messages through songs, dance, theatre plays, film and so forth.
Real name Zikizee Hangero, the contemporary artist recently released breath-taking visuals of an emotional song on the Ovaherero/Nama genocide, dubbed ‘Owe Owe’.
“This song is a cry from the Ovaherero, Nama and San women, asking what we have done wrong to deserve the murder, rape, and the psychological, physical, emotional abuse,” Zikii told VIBEZ!
The ‘Owe Owe’ music video, which was released on 30 July this year, forms part of her debut album, titled ‘Spread The Love’, released in November 2020. The album is available on iTunes, Deezer, Spotify and Apple Music.
“The title ‘Owe Owe’ in Otjiherero is literally just a cry that carries intense pain; however, I got to realise how amazingly linked and relevant the definition of ‘Owe Owe’ is when read in English – OvaHerero and Nama Genocide of 1904 to 1908,” shared Zikii.
She said the song is reminiscent of the evils done and at the same time reflecting and painting a picture of how beautiful and peaceful life was before the atrocities were carried out.
Zikii added: “Writing this song was very emotional; however, I must admit to it being one of the easiest songs I have written, simply because the lyrics run deep within me and, therefore, came naturally.”
“Similar to my Utu Nyekerera Music video, ‘Owe Owe’s’ video was also shot and directed by Ponti Dikuua. This video was shot at two venues, the Bank Windhoek Theatre School as well as the Avis Dam in Windhoek,” said Zikii.
She said the concept of the song came about when Dikuua wanted to collaborate with her on a few songs, especially considering that her sound for this particular song is contemporary folk, a combination of tradition and originality.
“I agreed with no hesitation and ‘Owe Owe’ was born. The song was initially written for dance. Ponti, who happens to be a good friend of mine, reached out, as he had an idea for a project he was working on for the OYO Dance Troupe,” recalled Zikii.
Dikuua is indeed one of the extremely talented producers in Namibia and the work put in this production speaks for itself, including other industry giants who rendered their input on the piece.
“This video would honestly not have been possible without the assistance of Philippe Talavera – this man has a heart of gold; thank you so much for your support and a shout out to the OYO Dance Troupe,” said the appreciative soulful singer.
“The visuals also speak loudly of the piece under review; the wardrobe for this video was a huge effort. The traditional pieces, worn by the small boys, were made by Zikii. Her mother (Dina Hangero) made the traditional attire she wore in the video, while an aunt sponsored the Namibian-flagged traditional dress.