The Gwijo "Yebo Lapho" Is An Example Of An African Song That Has A Great Beat & Sounds Beautiful But Also Has "X" Rated Lyrics

Pistole Gwijo, Aug 20, 2024  #gwijokings #gwijo #pistolegwijo

By @UnkleMsarow
-snip-
WARNING- This isiXhosa gwijo includes words that are "x" rated. 

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post showcases a YouTube video of the viral gwijo "Yebo Lapho" as sung by Unkle Msarow and the gwijo kings.

This post also includes selected comments from the discussion thread for that video. Those comments focus on how Unkle Msarow's rendition of "Yebo Lapho" sounds beautiful and has a catchy beat, but also has "x" rated lyrics

In addition, this pancocojams post presents selected comments from two Tik Tok videos. Those comments focus on how the commenters were surprised that that gwijo described an x rated bedroom sexual scene.

In my opinion, "Yebo Lapho" refutes the relatively commonly found statement that "Music is a universal language we can all bond over". Instead, that Xhosa language gwijo reminds people that of the importance of being aware of the meanings of a song's lyrics in a language you're not familiar with before embracing that song as one of your favorite jams.  

The content of this post is presented for socio-cultural purposes.

All copyrights remain with their  owners.

Thanks to Unkle Msarwo and the gwijo kings. Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the producers of this YouTube video and this Tik Tok video. 

****
DISCLAIMER:
I am an African American who doesn't read or speak any language but English.

I don't have any direct knowledge of South African culture and the only information that I have about that culture and the Xhosa language is from my reading on and off the internet.

Additions and corrections are welcome.

****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTES ABOUT SHOWCASE VIDEO #1 AND THAT YOUTUBE VIDEO'S DISCUSSION THREAD
The gwijo "Yebo Lapho" (Xhosa meaning "Yes, over there" is a viral hit in South African and in some other nations based on the number of social media videos and comments.

Unkle Msarow's version of "Yebo Lapho" and other versions I've come across online feature the standard "Zampampam" refrain that is found in other amagwijo (plural for "gwijo") with the title "Yebo Lapho" or other gwijo that don't include that title or any of those lyrics. Based on what I think I hear in that showcased Unkle Msarow YouTube video, here's what I refer to as the standard Zampampam refrain:

"Zampampam
Zampampam
iyhoo ah zampampa"

This fixed refrain is sung by the group in response to the leader's varying lines (call).

Although the title of the showcase "Yebo Lapho" video that is embedded at the top of this pancocojams post indicates that it includes lyrics for that song, the Xhosa lyrics (with no translations in another language) are written in captions within that video for only 0.41 seconds of that 2:24 video. Why are there no captions for the remainder of this video? Is this a way of not acknowledging that the lyrics for that song refer to a x rated sexual scene?

Furthermore, that video's summary doesn't include any of that song's lyrics and only a few comments in that video's discussion thread refer to any of that song's lyrics.

Most of that video's discussion thread focus on how beautiful that song sounds and how people throughout the world love singing it or dancing to it, even if they don't understand what the words to the song mean.

Here's my transcription of that song's lyrics that are given in that video along with the Xhosa to English translation of those words given in parenthesis. Imo, those results reinforce my opinion that Google translation shouldn't usually be considered as an accurate translation of gwijo songs (in large part because of the cultural differences between South Africa and the United States).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTOzHCLw-hk

Nango umalamola seka bheke umandlamini
(Even if you look at the river, you will see)

Nango u16 seka gijimisi v
(Here is the 16th runner v)

(Athi uyababona seba bhekane ngo 6)
He said that he saw them stealing from each other at 6

 Zampampam pam
(No translation given)

Hebathi yebo
(He said yes)

Yebo lapho
(Yes,here)

Kufunek isbhamu somdoko
(Need a shotgun)

Hayi yaya
(No, it went)

Zampampam
(No translation)

Zampampam
(No translation)

****
Here are two of the very few comments in the discussion thread for Uncke Msarow's "Yebo,Lapho" video that mentions lyrics to that song. These examples are numbered for referencing purposes only: 

1. @nonkuthalozondi802, 2024
"so sweet i like the part when he say nangu umadlamini esekabheka umalamula and it end when he say aaa ach men"
-snip-
Here are the Google translate results for this sentence from Xhosa to English:
"nangu umadlamini esekabheka umalamula" =here is a drunkard still looking at the lemon

 "aaa ach men" = oh my god

**
2. @makunguchabangu, 2024
"Nangi u16 seka gijimisi v🔥🔥❤️"
-snip-
from the on page Google translation feature for this video:
"“I'm 16 and I'm running v🔥🔥❤️”

****
Most of the comments in that video's discussion thread either praised the lead singer Unkle Msarow, and/or praised that song, praised the amamgwijo music genre, described their positive reactions to that song, or ranked the currently popular gwijo lead singers.

Here are a few examples of these comments (numbered for referencing purposes only).

2024
1.@NomhlepertuniaMashabane
"Love this gwijo❤❤❤❤"

**
@AsandaNkambule-h5w
"100%guys this is 100%

❤"

**
3. @BokamosoNtuli-d7y
"Yoo msaro  what  a nice song❤"

**
4. @thapelomagaxa5804
"his voice wow they are only 4 but the talent is amazing keep it up"

**
5. @OmphemetseKgopa
"oh what a nice remix ❤"

**
6. @BonisiweMpanza-f8n
"This Voice is makes me feel good ❤❤❤"

**
7. @Rmkays.132
"Yhoo these guys are fire

Love their music, always making me feel alive and making me wish l was there singing with them❤❤❤😊😢

**
8. @WillmahMagida
"You sing like a angel ❤❤❤"

2025

9. @MatsedisoMdi-t2e
"Wow❤❤it is a nice gwijo❤❤❤"

**
10. @IngridSelamolela
"I love this song is my favourite song for ever and ever amen and make crying😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢❤❤❤❤❤❤"

-snip-
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2025/06/a-possible-source-for-xhosa-word.html for the 2025 pancocojams post "A Possible Source For The Xhosa Word "Zampampam" That Is Used As A Title And/Or Refrain In Certain Amagwijo (Call & Response Songs)."

Also, click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2025/06/general-gee-zampampam-gwijo-video-with.html "General Gee & Group - "Zampampam" (Gwijo) video with partial lyrics with English translation"

****
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM A LINKED TIK TOK VIDEO #1
[Unfortunately, I don't know how to embed Tik Tok videos in this pancocojams blog.]

This video and the selected comments from its discussion thread are numbered for referencing purposes only.

https://www.tiktok.com/@yanolyrics_extra/video/7392519723126131973?lang=en "yanolyrics_extra: Yebo Lapho English translation😂…, published by Yano Lyrics Extra 💚, 2024-7-17

1. rat
"what is this translation 😭😭"

2024-7-17

**
2. risten🐆

"I lost it at porridge gun😭💔"

2024-7-17

**
Reply
3. Chanda!!
"Holding what ???😭😭😭🤣🤣"

2024-7-18

**
4. Kamogelo Montisi-Taw
"Lol nah these lyrics must be wrong 😂😂"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
5. Londeka Dlamini
"😂😂"

2024-7-20

**
Reply
6. thobz52
"No really 😂"

2024-7-22

**
7. creezy
"How's this song Legal😭😭😭😭"

2024-7-17

**
Reply
8. aubreykanji
"south africans y'all been singing this all this time ahh"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
9. kay_bee
"Even at school😂"

2024-7-19

**
10. Frieda🫠❤️♾️
"I never expected this😭😅"

2024-7-17

**
Reply
11. Sibahle Mtana
"No guys you don’t have to make a literal translation of everything."

2024-7-19

**
12. CHIHERA
"this is why you should know the meaning of these tunes before singing your heart out 😭😭😭😭"

2024-7-18

**
13. king mafi
"all l do learn is never never ever 💯 translate amapiano some of them especially this generation 🤣🤣 jut do the dance challenge and enjoy 🤣🤣"

2024-7-18

**
14. Nva_Kyankwanzi🇺🇬
"the way we all was vybing to it 😂"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
15. lucie💜💜💜🇹🇿❤️‍🔥
"😂😂😂😂"

2024-7-18

**
16. kelvincumbe1
"It's worse than I thought😭😭😭"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
17. Sizwe Mkhize
"😅😅😅😅"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
18. Chris
"I prefer not to understand 💔💀"

2024-7-18

**
19. blackbrunette_nancy
"No ways 🤭🤭🤭🤭 what?"

2024-7-18

**
20. Ayanda Cekiso
"it's doesn't make sense in English keep it like that"

2024-7-19

**
21.emanuelchimzythun
"😂😂😂😂 look what you did to my fave song💔"

 2024-7-19

**
22. kearsa🏳️‍🌈🥹💕

"you mara ke I enjoy this song but don't know the translation😔😂"

2024-7-19

**
Reply
17. miriam
"😂😂😂"

2024-7-19

**
Reply
18. PITSO NDABA
"😂😂😂 rather not translate coz wow"

2024-7-19

**
Reply
19. Thoby_23
"😂😂😂"

2024-7-19

**
20. Dineo❤️
"lol 😂 the day I listened to this song properly I was shook".

2024-7-19

**
Reply
21. JaneenMelissa
"😭😭😭😭😭😭"

2024-7-24

**
22. Dii
“A porridge gun is needed” for what?😂😂😂😭

2024-7-19

**
23. Silver Moon
"I thought everyone understood this song😭???"

2024-7-20

**
Reply
24. Yols
"No 😭"

2024-8-3

**
25. BoitumeloM
"Its worse in english 😭😭😭😭😂😂"

2024-7-20

**
26. d33_Vers
"😂😂😂I was NEVER ready 😭🙏"

 2024-7-21

**
27. janeyy_m3
"😂😂😂Why direct translation ?"

 2024-7-21

**
Reply
28. @...danon ✨🎀
"Pov:ur mind is..... If yk, yk🤣😭"

2024-7-21

**
29. Nangula_E4🇳🇦
"what are you guys making us sing along to😭😭😭"

2024-7-22

**
30. Dj Hlukzin 👑🙏
"aowa I'm no more singing this song😭"

2024-7-22

**
Reply
31. Nolwazi K🌸
"😭😭😭😭✋🏽"

2024-7-22

**
32.  Witty🦋🌺

" The dance is so cool though 😂😂😂😂the words🙌🙌🔫🔫"

2024-7-23

**
33. sunshine
"it's a joke because the meaning is different in our languages and it's just hard to translate it ends up sounding like nonsense 😂"

2024-7-23

**
34. Gulia🇳🇬🇮🇹

"I have learnt my lesson🤣🤣"

2024-7-23

**
35. moodswingssz
"welcome to sasa frika where we dance to what we don't know it means"

2024-7-26
-snip-
"sasa frika" - a colloquial way of saying "South Africa".

**
36. Phuluphedziso
"Why did i sing it in those English lyrics 😭😩"

2024-7-28

**
37. EasyRipper aka Jaja Tayo
"Wow no no. Wait what the hell yall got us singing lol what!?"

2024-10-19

**
38. Yols
"Never singing it loud again lol wtf"

2024-8-3

****
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM A LINKED TIK TOK VIDEO #2

[Unfortunately, I don't know how to embed Tik Tok videos in this pancocojams blog.]

This video and the selected comments from its discussion thread are numbered for referencing purposes only.

https://www.tiktok.com/@leanzo_theron/video/7401093787994344709 
The first video caption (written in English) “I can’t listen to this song anymore after knowing the English lyrics.”

published by Is That Leanzo?, 2024-8-9 

COMMENTS 
[These comments are numbered in relative chronological order, except for replies.] 

1. AllLove_365
"Hello be singing this with his innocent looking face 😂😂"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
2. kabo.diale
"🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

2024-7-18

**
Reply
3. Prosper Makhamba
"Doesn’t make sense in English 😂😂😂"

2024-7-26

**
Reply
4. pourstiel.saxx
"yes our languages can't be translated bro"

2024-7-26

**
5. kelvincumbe1
"It's worse than I thought😭😭😭"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
6. Chris
"I prefer not to understand 💔💀"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
7. blackbrunette_nancy
"No ways 🤭🤭🤭🤭 what?"

2024-7-18

**
Reply
8. Dineo❤️
"lol 😂 the day I listened to this song properly I was shook."

2024-7-19

**
Reply
9.

**
10. Ayanda Cekiso

"it's doesn't make sense in English keep it like that"

2024-7-19

**
5. Dj Hlukzin 👑🙏
"aowa I'm no more singing this song😭"

2024-7-19

**
6. @emanuelchimzythun
"😂😂😂 look what you did to my fave song💔"

2024-7-19

**
Reply
7. user87327547
"why are you translating it 😭😭😭😂"

2024-7-22

**
8.Micodi
"The (direct) translation is wild 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂"

2024-7-21

**
Reply
9.  Mkhonza
"Gun porridge?😂😂😂"

2024-7-21

**
Reply
10.Buhlebendalo 🪷 🇿🇦
"these lyrics...ngeke💀"

2024-7-22
-snip-
ngeke-[Zulu] = English meaning- I won’t

**
Reply
11. shaun
"😂😂translate it properly chief"

2024-7-22

**
Reply
12. Aka Ninja
"then people still say there's nothing wrong"

2024-7-25

**
Reply
13. Infinity_soul❤️
"🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😭😭😭 “yess yes a porridge gun is needed”

2024-8-9

**
Reply
14.Grace🎀😍
"Imma search it"

2024-8-9

**
Reply
12. Grace🎀😍
"Should’ve stayed curious"

2024-8-9

**
13. Danica💋
"the lyrics are heavy yoh😭"

2024-8-11

**
14. Reply
✝️
 "us who always knew the lyrics 👇"

 2024-8-12

**
Reply
 15. Callyn Alexander
"and the way people dance it but dont know the actual lyrics 😂"
2024- 8-14

**
Reply
16. Tati
"But yet here you are dancing to it 😂

2024-8-14

**
17. Yung Angel
"Yes Yes over there A porridge gun is neede

2024-8-21

**
Reply
18. English Police𓅓
"Porridge??? 😭😭😭"

2024-8-17

**
Reply
19. tshepi
"what does it mean"

 2024-8-20

**
Reply
20. londiwe 😋🤪🤪
"a boys infront💀"

2024-8-20

**
Reply
21. tshepi
"thanks"

2024-9-13

**
22. _D.ian_a
"Me too this song took away my innocence 😭😭😭😭😭

2024-8-21

**
Reply
23. Mimi💋
"I thought I was the only one😭😭"

 2024-8-21

**
Reply
24. zykara 101
"I can never delete this frm my memory ,yohhhh🤣🤣🤣🤣"

2024-8-29

**
25. princeĖßakhe
"whyyyyyyy"

2024-9-25

**
Reply
26. ❤️shady❤️
"tℎ𝑎𝑖 𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑏𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑖𝑛"

 2024-9-25

**
Reply
27. Cindy Hassan
"for real 😭😭😭😭"

 2024-9-25

**
Reply
28. hazelhoffman2
"that gun will make thing appear after 9 months😱😱😱"

2024-9-26

**
Reply
29. girvan_n
"😂😂😂😂"

2024-10-27

**
Reply
30. girvan_n
"God bless your innocent mind"

2024-10-27

**
Reply
31. Stunna
"And this is song we are screaming"

2024-8-15

**
Reply
31. maya🌺🐻
"after translation I won't sing loudly 🤣😂😂

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂"

2024-8-15

**
Reply
32. Jomo Sedibane
"but why are you still listening to it"

2024-9-25"

****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams

Visitor comments are welcome.

The South African Gwijo "Thina Siyazalana" ("Mtaka Mama") With Lyrics & English Translations (2025 Reprint)

laughter.mr, Jun 1, 2018

South African Soldiers Singing in Camp

****

Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post showcases several YouTube videos of the South African song  "Thina Siyazalana" ("Mtaka Mama").

YouTube features a video of South African soldiers singing this song in a camp. Several other YouTube videos showcase the South African gwijo* "Thina Siyazalana" being by South African students.

*From https://www.soccerladuma.co.za/fan-park/update/ten-words-from-mzansi-s-football-dictionary/304884 "Ten Words From Mzansi's Football Dictionary", by Captain Alzheimers, Jun 2, 2016

"Igwijo” or “Amagwijo”

The words simply means ‘song.’ Those are the songs sung in stadiums by fans and by players in dressing rooms just before games.. "
-snip-
"Amagwijo" is the plural form of the isiXhosa word "igwijo" ("gwijo").

Comments about the lyrics for this song are included in this post.

The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos, and thanks to all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks also to all the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
-snip-
This is a complete reprint of a 2019 pancocojams post.

That post has five comments as of June 30, 2025
-snip-
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2019/10/information-about-videos-about-south.html "Information About & Videos About South Africans' Gwijo Songs (Songs Sung During Rugby Games & Cricket Games)" for Part I of a pancocojams series on gwijo songs. Part II of that series features the video that is given as Example #1 and another copy of the same video that is given as Example #2 in this post.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS

Example #1: That video is embedded at the top of this post.
-snip-
Here's a few comments from that video's discussion thread:
1. DECEMBER IV, 2018
"Ndikhumbula abazali,ndikhumbula abazali bam
Umama ulele
Khanibize noba ngu mama
Thina siyazalana nobu ngandzonda nzok niku thando
Ngiba ngak cabanga
-snip-
Here's the Google translate translation from Xhosa to English: (additions and corrections are very welcome)
"I miss parents, I miss my parents
The mother is asleep
Call her mom
We are related to this and hate to love
I think"

**
2. Bevan Nel, 2019
"What are the words to this chant? Absolutely brilliant!"

**
REPLY
5. Mivuyo Marawuu, 2019
"(Loose Translation)
Guy Leading The Song:
Ndikhumbula Abazali
'I Miss My Parents'
Hayi Bambulele
'They Killed Him.'
Kanibize Noba Ngumama
'Please Atleast Call My Mother.'
Ndisemzini weGxagxa
' I'm In Prison'

Siyazalana
'We Are Related.'
Noba ungandizonda Ndizokunika uThando
' Even If You Hate Me ,I Will Show/Give You Love.'

Mama Kanomzizi
'Nomzizi's Mother.'😅
NdingenaMama NdingenaTata
'I Didn't Have A Mother Nor A Father.'
Siyazalana Mama
' We Are Related.'
Mntakamama
'My Sibling.'

The Guys Following:
Zumpee, Mntakamama , Zumpee Hay, Zumpe Hayi, Mntakamama.

Doesn't Make Fluid Sense Without Understand The Background Of The Story."

****
Example #2: Queens college -Mtaka Mama 🔥🔥



Amagwijo Collection, Feb 13, 2019

Amagwijo Collection is a channel that is dedicated to embracing "amagwijo" songs
-snip-
Here's some comments from this video's discussion thread (with numbers added for referencing purposes only)
1. macdonald sebotlhelo, 2019
"I love this song can someone help with the lyrics all i can pick up is siyazalana that's it"

**
REPLY
2. Mahle Mpungose, 2019
"Thina siyazalana mama
Zumpeee mtaka mama
Zumpeya ofikizolo mtaka mama
Helelelele
Zumpeee
Mtaka mama
Zumpeya
Ofikizolo mtaka mama"

****
Example #3: Mntaka Mama (Thina Siyazalana)



Tumi Tucha, May 4, 2019

Group of school boys singing this awesome gwijo.
-snip-
I'm not sure which South African school this is. One commenter wrote "St stithians college" and another commenter wrote "St. Albans college in Pretoria". 

Update: Anonymous June 23, 2020 at 7:09 AM wrote in this pancocojams post that this was St. Albans college. Anonymous also wrote that in South Africa "college  is a high school for 13-18 year olds."Thanks Anonymous! 

In the United States that age range would generally conform to the age range for students in the last year of middle school to the last year of high school (from 8th grade through 12th grade), or the age range for all four years of high school (9th grade through 12th grade). After graduating high school in the USA, some students would then go to college/university. (In the USA, a college is a post-graduate educational institution that is smaller than a university.) 

Here's some comments from this video's discussion thread (with numbers added for referencing purposes only)
1. Devon Kirby, 2019
"Someone please post the words to this, I'm English and want to learn. It's my favorite gwijo song"

**
REPLY
2. ZAMANI MTHEMBUm 2019
"Thina siyazalana mama
zupeeeeee
mntakamama
zupeee yaaah
ufik izolo umntakamama"

****
Example #4: St Stithians Boys College Gwijo - Thina Siyazalana🔥



DJ Wax SA , Premiered Jun 23, 2021 -snip-
November 18, 2022- This video replaces a video of the same South African college singing this song. This video has no comments (as of June 30, 2025)

-snip-
Here are some comments from the discussion thread of the YouTube video that was originally embedded in this pancocojams post but is no longer available.

St Stithians Boys College - "Thina Siyazalana" ("Mtaka Mama") 
published by Mr Robot, June 2, 2019. 

Numbers are added for referencing purposes only

1. Gera Nini, 2019
"Sigcwele ngabelungu kaloku esaskolo , so this version of the gwijo doesn't have the vibe and beauty as  it would've had if it was mostly abantu abamnyama pha ."
-snip-
Google translate from Zulu to English:
"Sigcwele ngabelungu kaloku esaskoloI= "full of white people at school"
"abantu abamnyama pha" ="black people here"

**
2. Simnikiwe Belu, 2019

"Queens kill it!!!! this version is overrated!!!! just wish Queens can clapback!!!"
-snip-
Queens is another South African college. View Video #2 above.

**
3. macdonald sebotlhelo, 2019
"Please help with the lyrics all i can pick up is siyazalana"

**
REPLY
4. Thapelo Tlhale, 2019
"Thina siyazalana Ma

 Zooooompeeeeee, mnta ka mama

Zooooompeeeeeeha, ufikezolo, mnta ka mama"

**
REPLY
5. Gryder Zl, 2020
"Thina siyazalana ma : we are siblings

Zumeka mtana kama: fall asleep child of my mom

Ufike izolo umtana ka ma: he/she arrived yesterday, the child of my mom.

There is no perfect translation, that's the best way grammatically i can translate it to u without losing the melody.

It probably won't make sense in English due to culture."

It's more of a simple brethren song of viewing others as brothers or family.

**
6. lwazi juta, 2019
"They forgot what I gwijo is... Busy here is composing and ish.. QUEENS COLLEGE... any day... You don't practice igwijo... Ii lapha kuwe"

-snip-
Google translate from Zulu to English
"Ii lapha kuwe" ="It's here for you"

**
7. Pakamani Ndwandwa, 2020
"What in the mamamia is this... This is utter disrespect to igwijo... This is flippen choral music not igwijo. An absolute wast of data, watching these boys reduce the spirit of igwijo."

**
8. Nkosi Zulu, 2020
"Gwijo shouldn't be rehearsed and preformed.  Even the clapping was rehearsed 😴boring"

**
9.  Zikhona Nkabi, 2020
"Also for such songs, imigwijo there are no lyrics. The beauty of these songs they were sang from the heart & free hand. It’s never planned. It’s really just a repetition of one line."

****
This concludes Part IV of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome. 

General Gee & Group - "Zampampam" (Gwijo) video with partial lyrics with English translation

Pistole Gwijo,  Jul 6, 2024  #gwijokings #gwijo #pistolegwijo

By General Gee
-snip-
Statistics for this YouTube video as of June 23, 2025 at 4:18 PM EDT
total # of views - 3,780,736 views
total # of comments -1,273  as of June 23, 2025 at 4:18 PM EDT  

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

Latest revision- June 24, 2025

This is Part II of a two part pancocojams series on (South African) gwijos (songs) that have the title "Zampampam" or include the word "zampampam" as a refrain..

This post showcases a YouTube video of  General Gee's version of "Zampampam".

This is the first online video of any YouTube or Tik Tok amagwijo ("gwijos") * with the title "Zampampam" or which have the word "zampampam" as a refrain.

This post also presents the partial lyrics for this July 6, 2024 gwijo from the screen captions of that video. English translations of those Xhosa words are given in this pancocojams post along with some explanations about those English translations.  

* "Gwijo" is a South African Xhosa word for a certain type of call & response song. The plural form of the word "gwijo" is "amagwijo". However, in this pancocojams blog I include the incorrect plural form "gwijos" in parenthesis along with the word "amagwijo" to clarify the meaning of that Xhosa word. 

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2025/06/general-information-about-south-african.html for Part I of this pancocojams series. That post presents information and notes about "gwijo" in general and "Zampampam" amagwijo ("gwijos) in particular.

The content of this post is presented for entertainment, aesthetic, and socio-cultural purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to General Gee and all the members of this group for this gwijo. Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publisher of this video on YouTube.

****
Disclaimer:
I am an African American who doesn't speak any language but English and has no direct knowledge of South African culture.

Therefore, the only information that I have about amagwijo ("gwijos") in general and examples of these songs that are titled "Zampampam" or include the word "zampampam" as a refrain has been gleaned from searching the internet.

I'm aware that some of this information may be incomplete and/or inaccurate.  

Additions and corrections are very welcome.

****
XHOSA LYRICS FROM THIS VIDEO'S CAPTIONS WITH GOOGLE TRANSLATION RESULTS FROM XHOSA TO ENGLISH

[Pancocojams Editor's note:
A number of amagwijo ("gwijos") have the title "Zampampam" or include the word "zampampam" as a refrain. The tune and tempo for many of these songs are the same or similar, but the lyrics appear to differ except for the "zampampam" refrain.

These captions given below appear on the video screen [in Xhosa] to .59 although the group continues singing until 2:49.

I’m assuming that the words are in Xhosa since that is usually the language for gwijos. The English translations are given in parenthesis.]

Zampampam
(no translation found)

Zampampam

Foya shaya inae nae
(Come on, hit him with it)

Iyoh haa
(oh yeah)

weh foja
(Wow, soldier)

Foya shaya inae nae
(Come on, hit him with it)

Zampampam

Shaya itswala bami
(Hit my cousin)

iyoh haa
(oh yeah)

weh foja
Wow, soldier [Xhosa]

Zampampam

Tobetsa Labantu
(Press people)

Zampampam

Point ubabuze kwenza kalani
(Point, ask them what they did

Iyoh haa
(oh yeah)

Zampampam

ahh ahchu mahn
(Google translate doesn't give any results for "ahh achu". However, I found this meaning elsewhere online:  “ah achu” [ah achoo] means “oh well” in Xhosa"

"mahn" is probably the contemporary African American spelling for “man”.)

Zampampam

Iyoh haa
(oh yeah)

weh foja
(Wow, soldier)

Zampampam

Phuza ama apetito
(Drink your appetite) 

****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
My guess is that the lyrics of this gwijo is challenging others to try to best (perform better than) the lead singer and his group. This comment in this video's discussion thread indicates that General Gee made up the words to this gwijo on the spot:

@St4rs.4_Musa, 024, 2024, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnU0oc0dhX0
"I love how this is a freestyle ✨💗"
-snip-
Addition and corrections are welcome regarding my guess about the overall meaning of the lyrics for this version of "Zampampam".

Read my comment in this pancocojams post's discussion thread that quotes some commenters about how lyrics for amagwijos aren't supposed to be fixed.

****
ENGLISH LANGUAGE EXPLANATION FOR "ZAMPAMPAM" 
from AI results [June 22, 2025] - "Zampampam" appears to be a nonsensical or onomatopoeic sound, possibly added to the gwijo for rhythmic or playful effect. It doesn't have a direct English translation."

**
ENGLISH LANGUAGE EXPLANATION FOR ' PHUZA AMA APETITO"

[AI result]

In Xhosa, "Phuza" means "to drink". The word "apetito" comes from Spanish and means "appetite".

So, "Phuza ama apetito" literally translates to "drink the appetizers" or "drink the appetites". However, in a South African context, particularly in the realm of slang and online trends (like on TikTok), this phrase is often used in a figurative way to refer to taking something that increases one's appetite.

Based on the usage on platforms like TikTok, "Phuza ama apetito" is associated with the idea of taking something to make one hungry or to boost one's desire to eat. It's used in the context of viral videos and challenges, suggesting it's related to some kind of food or appetite stimulant.

****

Here are two related Tik Tok 2024 videos with "Phuza Ama Apetito" in their title:   

Protea amaapetito gwijo

Phuza Ama Apetito Dance Challenge Highlights

TikTok · Abutiiiqualityyy2.0, 2024

 
**
TikTok · JEVANEO💕, 2024

ma APETITO Pills Usage and Effects Explained

**
Here's information from Facebook about the South African somewhat related term "Phuza Thursday":
https://www.facebook.com/SaffaDeli/posts/phuza-thursday-is-a-lively-tradition-in-south-africa-the-term-phuza-comes-from-t/594824423592528/

Protea Delights

noseodtSrp, March26, 2025

Phuza Thursday is a lively tradition in South Africa. The term "phuza" comes from the Zulu and Xhosa languages, meaning "drink." This day has become a popular pre-weekend celebration, where people gather to enjoy drinks and socialize, marking an early start to the weekend 🍻

It’s like a warm-up party for Friday nights—South African style"

****
This concludes Part II of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

General Information About (South African) Gwijo & Information About Amagwijo ("Gwijos") That Have The Title "Zampampam"

Pistole Gwijo,  Jul 6, 2024  #gwijokings #gwijo #pistolegwijo

By General Gee

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

Latest revision - June 24, 2025

This is Part I of a two part pancocojams series on (South African) amagwijo* ("gwijos") * that have the title "Zampampam".or include the word "zampampam" as a refrain. 

This post presents information and notes about "gwijo" in general and amagwijo ("gwijos") * that have the title "Zampampam".or include the word "zampampam" as a refrain. 

* "Gwijo" is a South African Xhosa word for a certain type of call & response song. The plural form of the word "gwijo" is "amagwijo". However, in this pancocojams blog I include the incorrect plural form "gwijos" in parenthesis along with the word "amagwijo" to clarify the meaning of that Xhosa word. 

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2025/06/general-gee-zampampam-gwijo-video-with.html for Part II of this pancocojams series. That post showcases a YouTube video of  General Gee's version of "Zampampam" .This is the first video of a number of other YouTube and Tik Tok gwijos with the title "Zampampam".

This post also presents the partial lyrics for that gwijo from the screen captions of that video. English translations of those Xhosa words are given in this pancocojams post along with my speculative explanations about those English translations.  

The content of this post is presented for entertainment, aesthetic, and socio-cultural purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to General Gee and thanks to all of the members of this group for this gwijo. Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publisher of this video on YouTube.

****
Disclaimer:
I am an African American who doesn't speak any language but English and has no direct knowledge of South African culture.

Therefore, the only information that I have about amagwijo ("gwijos") in general and examples of these songs that are titled "Zampampam" or include the word "zampampam" as a refrain has been gleaned from searching the internet.

I'm aware that some of this information may be incomplete and/or inaccurate.  

Additions and corrections are very welcome.

****

INFORMATION AND NOTES ABOUT GWIJO
Source #1
From https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6FfYRNj_3M&ab_channel=GwijoSquad

Nov 23, 2020
..."Amagwijo is a particular Xhosa practice of collective singing deeply embedded in African culture. It takes the form of call and response (“I say something//You say something I hear you//You hear me. We’re in dialogue together”). Because Gwijo uses no instruments (other than the voice), it could be described as a cappella. For the amaXhosa people of South Africa, Gwijo songs have traditionally been sung to accompany weddings, funerals, initiations and other rites of passage and sacred moments.

Part of these songs’ potency resides in their being so cathartic across a range of human emotions: they can express joy, determination and victory, but also devastation. A Gwijo ‘performance’ can celebrate, protest, resist or reclaim. Ultimately though, it draws on the power of the collective to attain a kind of fierce grace, a coming together in intensity.

[...]

In South Africa, Gwijo is becoming pervasive at sporting events. It seems to have been born, at least partially, out of an instinct for harmonising discordant energies in the national history and culture. You see, sporting events in South Africa have a history of being segregated and racially charged.

Enter the Gwijo Squad, who turn up to rugby and cricket events to reclaim a sense of shared ownership and create safety. The Gwijo effect in stadiums fosters belonging, raises feel-good energy, and, ultimately imbues the sporting fixture with a sense of communal joy."...
-snip-
Pancocojams Editor's Note: 
Since 2019, loosely organized groups of Black South African males have been singing gwijos during South African sporting events. Some of these gwijos are traditional songs, or South African struggle songs (apartheid protest songs), or newly composed songs such as Gwijo Avenue's 2022 song "Cellular".   
-snip-
This quote is included in this November 2022 pancocojams post "How TikTok Is Popularizing South Africa's Gwijos: Gwijo Avenue's Viral 2022 Song "Cellular" (with lyrics & English translations)" https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2022/11/how-tiktok-is-popularizing-south.html

****
Source #2
[Pancocojams Editor's Note: This is my transcription of a brief portion of this televised discussion (at around 1:46 to around 3:40 of this video). Additions and corrections are welcome.]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BwIgH7lisI&ab_channel=SABCNews Understanding the "Gwijo Squad movement

SABC Digital News, Sep 6, 2019

(Interviewer) -"So you're here to tell us about amagwijo. It's more than what we see in the stadiums, it's a rich tradition. Amigwijo is a Xhosa tradition. Tell us more about it"

Chulumanco Macingwane (C.M.) [chairman of the Gwijo Squad]: "The word igwijo is a Xhosa word, but the practice of gwijo, the singing of these traditional songs that take the form of a leader and respondents is something that is completely ubiquitous in the country. It exists in every single one of our cultures which is why it resonates so much with people of all cultures. Incidentally, I was explaining to some, to some really enthusiastic White supporters today that when you see a gwijo squad or a group of Black people singing gwijo, don't assume that everyone speaks the language that they are singing in. We might be singing in isiXhosa and there might be Venda people and Sotho people and such but it's because this thing exists in all those cultures. So whatever language it is being sung in, they, it resonates with them and they take right with it. Why we felt that if a Venda dude can learn a Xhosa gwijo, it should not be that much difficult if at all for an Afrikaan say to learn a Xhosa gwijo. So that's why..."

[Iinterviewer): "It's for everyone."

(C.M.): "We felt that we needed to bring the spirit of gwijo absolutely to every color, creed, language". Yes.

Interviewer: "So, it's songs to get you through hardship. Rugby is particularly apt. Those players on the field have a lot of pressure. But it's the captain Gqoboka who has clicked so effortlessly with the Gwijo Squad."..
-snip-
This partial interview is one of the quotes that are included in this 2021 pancocojams post:  http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2021/09/what-do-xhosa-south-africa-words-gwijo.html "What Do The Xhosa (South Africa) Words "Gwijo" And "AmaGwijo" Mean?" .

****
Source #3
AI [results: June 23, 2025]
"Gwijo (or iGwijo) is a South African practice of collective singing, deeply rooted in Xhosa culture. It's characterized by call-and-response singing, traditionally used to accompany significant life events like weddings and funerals. The songs are performed a cappella, relying solely on human voices. Recently, Gwijo has gained popularity in South African sports, with groups like the Gwijo Squad using it to energize and unite fans.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Cultural Significance:

Gwijo is more than just singing; it's a way to express emotions, celebrate, mourn, and build community.

Call and Response:

The core of Gwijo is the call-and-response structure, where one person or group initiates a phrase, and another responds. This creates a dynamic and interactive musical dialogue.

A Cappella:

Gwijo is traditionally performed without musical instruments, relying solely on the human voice.

Modern Applications:

While rooted in tradition, Gwijo is evolving and finding new relevance in contemporary contexts like sports, where it's used to build camaraderie and support for teams. The Gwijo Squad is a prime example, using it to energize the crowd during rugby matches.

Community Building:

Gwijo fosters a sense of unity and shared experience, transforming individual expressions into a collective act."

****
INFORMATION AND NOTES ABOUT GWIJOS WITH THE TITLE "ZAMPAMPAM"
Pancocojams Editor's Note:
"Zampampam" is a word that is found in a number of amagwijo (the plural form of the Xhosa word "gwijo") since at least July 6, 2024 when a video with that title that was lead by General Gee was published on YouTube. (the showcase video found above). That gwijo and other amagwijo with the title "Zampampam" and/or with the word "zampampam" used as a refrain have become quite popular in South Africa and in some other African nations.

**
"Zampampam" appears to less frequently spelled "zampampa" or "zampapa".

**
Based on the Zampampam videos that I have watched and their discussion threads, it appears to me that most amagwijo with the title "Zampampam" have the same or similar rhythm, tune, and tempo, but have different lyrics except for the refrain "Zampampam". 

It appears that the rhythm and tune of Zampampam gwijos are much more important than the words for those songs. Most of the comments in those discussion threads-even the videos whose title include the words "lyrics" - focus on how well the lead singer and his group performed that song compared to another lead singer and that singer's group (or how well a lead singer performed his portion of that gwijo compared to the other lead singer/s in that particular rendition of that song.) 

**
I've come across a few YouTube videos of Zampampam whose titles include the word "lyrics". However, those videos usually only include Xhosa lyrics in captions for a small part of that video of for the entire video. In one of those videos, those words are very difficult to read because of the type of font and the size of the font.

I've not come across any online lyric videos or textual posts for the Xhosa words or English tanslations of the words for Zampampam gwijos even when the titles and/or summaries to YouTube videos or Tik Tok videos indicate that content. Also, I've only found only a few comments about lyrics to a particular Zampampam gwijo in the discussion thread for that particular video. videos.

**   
AI Notes About Zampampam

Pancocojams Editor's Note:
The following AI notes are the result of a question that I posted about "Zampampam" on June 21, 2025 and the result of a question that I posted on June 23, 2025

My question #1 - What is the English meaning of the South African gwijo Zampampam"?

AI Overview-
"Gwijo zampampam" is not a standard English phrase or a universally recognized South African expression. "Gwijo" refers to a style of collective singing, particularly within Xhosa culture, often done in a call-and-response format. "Zampampam" appears to be a nonsensical or onomatopoeic sound, possibly added to the gwijo for rhythmic or playful effect. It doesn't have a direct English translation.

Here's a breakdown:

Gwijo:

A form of communal singing, primarily associated with Xhosa culture in South Africa, characterized by call-and-response patterns.

Zampampam:

This is not a standard Xhosa or South African word. It seems to be a playful, rhythmic sound, possibly used to add emphasis or a specific rhythm to the singing."

****
My question #2- What is the Xhosa meaning for Zampampam?
"AI Overview

There's no direct Xhosa word "Zampampam" with a widely accepted, defined meaning.

Based on the search results, it seems "Zampampam" is used in the context of Xhosa culture, particularly within the genre of "Gwijo". Gwijo is a type of South African music often characterized by call-and-response and energetic vocals.

While it might not have a formal definition, the context of its use suggests it could function as:

An exclamation or chant within Gwijo music, adding emphasis or energy.

Part of a specific song or phrase within the Gwijo style that has a particular meaning within that musical tradition.

Think of it like an "oh yeah!" or a catchy phrase in a song that doesn't have a literal translation but carries a lot of feeling and energy in its context.

In summary, "Zampampam" doesn't have a typical dictionary definition in Xhosa, but it's used within the context of Gwijo music and likely serves as an expressive or energetic element within that genre.."

****
This concludes Part I of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

The Xhosa (South African) Custom Of Gwijo Singers Rubbing Their Hands In A Circular Motion Followed By A Hand Clap

Gwijo Avenue, June 18, 2022

****

Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post presents information about amagwijo ("gwijo") andfocuses on the custom of singers rubbing their hand in a circular manner followed by a hand clap while singing gwijo.

This post also showcases seven YouTube examples of that hand rubbing custom.

The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to the composers of these songs and thanks to all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks to  all those who are featured in these showcases videos and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
-snip-
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2021/09/what-do-xhosa-south-africa-words-gwijo.html for a pancocojams post on this subject entitled "What Does The IsiXhosa (South African) Words "Amagwijo" & "Igwijo" Mean?".

Also, click the "gwijo" tag below for additional pancocojams posts on that music genre.
-snip-
*The spelling "gwijos" ['gwijo" with an s" at the end] is an English language plural form of that Xhosa word.". "AmaGwijo" is the Xhosa plural form for "gwijo" Although the word "gwijos" is incorrect in isiXhosa, I've seen it used in a number of YouTube discussion thread comments about a particular gwijo or about more than one gwijo. Consequently, I sometimes use the word "gwijos" in pancocojams posts on this subject.

****
INFORMATION ABOUT AMAGWIJO (GWIJO) 
Excerpt #1
From https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/188774534.pdf [1981 University of Wits dissertation "The Music Of The Xhosa-Speaking People Of South Africa" by Deirdre Doris Hansen, page 60;
"The Marching songs iingoma zokuhamba) which identify the various social groups and many of which are called amagwijo ( their words express and emphasize group sentiments and loyalty), are often the result of group composition"  -snip-
Pancocojams Editor's Note: This quote is from a 1981 dissertation whose fieldwork was in 1969-1972.A longer excerpt of this passage is given in the pancocojams post whose link is found above **** Excerpt #2 From https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BwIgH7lisI&ab_channel=SABCNews Understanding the Gwijo Squad movement

SABC Digital News, Sep 6, 2019

[Pancocojams Editor's Note: This is my transcription of a brief portion of this televised discussion (at around 1:46 to around 3:40 of this video). Additions and corrections are welcome.]

(Interviewer) -"So you're here to tell us about amagwijo. It's more than what we see in the stadiums, it's a rich tradition. Amigwijo is a Xhosa tradition. Tell us more about it"

Chulumanco Macingwane (C.M.) [chairman of the Gwijo Squad]: "The word igwijo is a Xhosa word, but the practice of gwijo, the singing of these traditional songs that take the form of a leader and respondents is something that is completely ubiquitous in the country. It exists in every single one of our cultures which is why it resonates so much with people of all cultures. " "

****
DISCLAIMER:
I am an African American who only knows information about South African culture from reading online and offline and from watching YouTube vidoes.

Additions and corrections are very welcome for these descriptions.
****
DESCRIPTION OF THIS CIRCULAR RUBBING HAND MOTION 

The circular rubbing hands motion while singing gwijo is done by
1. folding your hands up in the prayer gesture
2. moving your folded hands down slightly above the center of your waist with the hands facing away from your body
3. rub the palm of one hand in the palm of your other hand in a circular motion; This rubbing motion usually occurs about three or four times. Maintain a medium tempo (neither fast or slow).

This rubbing motion doesn't make any sound.

4. Follow this circular rubbing hand motion with a hand clap (or, less often with a fast sequence of claps)   

-snip-
Judging from YouTube gwijo videos that I have watched, this rubbing motion doesn't seem to be done except in combination with individual hand clapping (when a person claps his or her own hands). Also, I've watched a few gwijo videos where singers didn't do this circular rubbing motion

As indicated in Deirdre Doris Hansen's 1981 dissertation on Xhosa music that is cited above, hand   

clapping doesn't occur in the beginning of amaXhosa songs.

As such, the circular hand rubbing motion that is combined with hand clapping doesn't occur at the beginning of these songs, and as is the case with other amaXhosa music, the hand clapping-and therefore the circular rubbing motion as well as any other hand motions-stops before the song ends.

Read the comments that are found immediately below for speculation about why this rubbing custom occurs while singing gwijos.

****
YOUTUBE DISCUSSION THEAD COMMENTS ABOUT THE CUSTOM OF GWIJO SINGERS RUBBING THEIR HANDS IN A CIRCULAR MOTION FOLLOWED BY A HAND CLAP
From  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoYzaYLQ_jI&t=85s [discussion thread comments for the video that is given as Showcase #2 below]

1. @haja79,2023
"Hi everyone ! Firstly, just know that your songs are listened to as far as France 😊! Just one question though: What is the meaning of « rubbing » hands while singing? Thank you and keep bringing so many different emotions through what I call the STRENGTH of music 💪🏾🫶🏽"

**
Reply
2. @lihlezingitwa3511, 2023
"They make the song more interesting"

**
Reply
3. @flyvourseptembernyathi4012,2023
"It helps keep the rhythm"
-snip-
I wrote a comment a few weeks ago reiterating @haja70's interest in this custom and asking for more information. No other replies have been added thus far.

It just occurs to me that the comment that that rubbing motion makes the song more interesting might mean that it makes the performance more interesting to watch. I definitely agree with that.  

****
ADDITIONAL YOUTUBE VIDEOS THAT INCLUDES THIS RUBBING MOTION
These examples are given in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only.

English translations from the Xhosa titles are included in brackets after those titles. Additions and corrections are welcome

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - Cellular 🎥📱🔥🔥ishoooooo mntanami [Cellular (cell phones) Said My Baby"

 

Gwijo Avenue, Feb 2, 2022  ALEXANDRA STADIUM

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - Bamthathile Ubaby | The day we discovered Jomo the Raw Gem💎😭😭😭 [They took ubaby]

Gwijo Avenue - June 18, 2022

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - Bambulele uNomathemba [They killed Nomathemba]



Gwijo Squad, Jul 5, 2018

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - asinalo uvalo thina gwijo🙏🏽❤❤ [We have no fear]

Izimboza6242, Jul 16, 2022

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Thina Siyazalana Gwijo Song [We are related]

ACAPELLA SOUTH AFRICA, Apr 6, 2023  #acapellaRSA #Gwijowave #GwijoLiyaphilisa

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #7 - Ngiyosebenza kanzima Gwijo🙏🏿❤  [I will work hard]

 

Izimboza6242, Oct 16, 2023

****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.