African Medley

When it is time for a choir anniversary, a cultural day, or a festive concert, the repertoire often shifts from solemn hymns to something that gets the whole hall moving. "African Medley" is exactly that kind of piece. Arranged for the Bella Voce Choir by Aduel Emmanuel and Ikemefuna Ede, it weaves together three massive pan-African hits into a single, high-energy choral showcase.

The medley kicks off with the driving rhythm of Angelique Kidjo's "Agolo," bringing an immediate burst of life to the risers. From there, it transitions smoothly into the joyful, thanksgiving-filled melodies of Teni's "Uyo Meyo," reminding everyone that "nothing is too small, nothing is too big" to celebrate. Finally, the choir lays down the groove for Yvonne Chaka Chaka's legendary "Umqombothi," rounding out a set that spans the continent from West to South Africa.

For a choir director, pieces like this are a joy to rehearse. They challenge the singers to switch languages—from Yoruba to English and Zulu—while maintaining the distinct rhythmic bounce each song demands. It is a brilliant way to close out a social event, leaving the audience clapping along and celebrating the shared musical spirit of Africa.