“Ibike” is a deeply spiritual and uplifting Kalabari praise song performed by the Lagos City Chorale. The song carries rich cultural and religious significance, and its composition is attributed to Dr. Oyibosiya Eberewariye, a notable figure in the Kalabari community who was not only a medical doctor but also a composer, choirmaster, and organist.
The song’s lyrics are an invitation to come and build for the Lord, with each verse emphasizing the divine attributes and role in the lives of believers. The Kalabari language used in the song adds an authentic and traditional touch to its message, making it a profound expression of faith and devotion.
The chorus of “Ibike” encourages listeners to be good to the Creator, the Owner, and the Keeper, highlighting the reverence and adoration expressed in the song. It creates a sense of spiritual urgency, inviting worshippers to participate actively in building and serving the Lord.
The repetitive nature of the chorus and verses is a common feature of praise songs, allowing for communal singing and participation. This arrangement, favored for its diatonic harmony, preserves the folk style of the song, ensuring that it resonates authentically with its cultural roots.
Overall, “Ibike” is a beautiful representation of Kalabari culture and faith, and the performance by the Lagos City Chorale captures the song’s essence admirably. It’s a testament to the power of music to convey deep spiritual messages and connect people with their heritage and beliefs.
Correct Lyrics in true Kalabari Language.
(Note that “Ibike” has been arranged by a number of notable musicians, including David Aina and Peter Sylvanus. This is an arrangement by Derrick Esezobor, preferred by many choristers for its diatonic harmony, which is truer to the folk style).
Ibi ke Itemebo mie
Inyanabo mie
Ikokobo mie eee
Ori Gbamasobo I sinari ee bo te nama
(Repeat)
Chorus
Ibi ke omie ee (2ce)
Ibi ke omie ee (2ce)
Sobo sobo Ikokobo mie ee
Ori Gbamasobo I sinari ee bo te nama (2ce)
(Repeat)
Verse 2
Owari bote nama bote nama
Bote bo kori ee
Ori Gbamasobo I sinari ee bote nama
(Repeat)
Repeat Chorus (2ce)
Sobo Ibike omie ee (2ce)
Sobo sobo sobo sobo
OOOOmie ee
Sobo oooo Sobo oooo (2ce)
Gbamasobo I sinari ee bote nama (several times)
Ibike Translation:
Verse 1
Be good to your creator
Your owner
Your keeper
The Everlasting One calls you to come and build
Chorus
Be good to Him (2ce)
Be good to him (2ce)
Come in, come in and do for your keeper
The Everlasting One calls you to come and build
Verse 2
His house, come and build, come and build
Come and do the work
The Everlasting One calls you to come and build
Chorus (as above)
Come in, do good to Him (2ce)
Come in, come in (4ce)
Do for Him
Come in, come in (2ce)
The Everlasting One calls you to come and build (several times to the end)
Stream Lagos City Chorale Ibike audio mp3.
Lagos City Chorale Ibike mp3 download.
