Ugo Bu Na Mmai

"Ugo Bu Na Mmai" is a vibrant Igbo celebration song that brings the festive spirit of the community right into the choir loft. Drawing on powerful traditional imagery, the song uses the eagle (ugo)—a symbol of majesty and prestige—and wine (mmai) to paint a picture of deep joy and thanksgiving. It is the kind of piece a choir brings out for cultural feast days, parish harvests, or joyful receptions where the congregation is ready to dance.

The arrangement is full of rhythmic energy and life. It opens with a bright call to witness and praise beauty ("Anya hurugo jaa ya mma"), before breaking into a spirited a cappella section. Here, the voices mimic the smooth, soaring flight of the eagle ("ije ya bu ije samsam"), layering harmonies that lift the entire room.

As the piano returns for the final section, the song issues a joyful invitation: "onye riri oji kpaa ya nku" (he who eats kola, let him flap his wings). It is a highly animated piece that allows the choir to celebrate their roots and lead the people in an authentic expression of gladness.