The ever-humorous and genre-bending Kabusa Oriental Choir has dropped a new original track titled ‘Cannabi’, and it deserves far more attention than it’s getting.
With just 7,291 views and 347 likes on YouTube (at the time of writing), ‘Cannabi’ is currently flying under the radar, but make no mistake: it’s a certified bop. True to the group’s signature style, the song blends clever lyricism, catchy melodies, and choral arrangements with a playful twist that fans have come to love.
For a group known for their innovative choral renditions of Nigerian and South African pop hits, as well as their viral original series ‘Valentine Is Coming’, which regularly racks up over 523,000 views, the modest performance of ‘Cannabi’ is surprising.
A clever pun on the word “Cannabis” but actually meaning “Can I Be”—‘Cannabi’ is a light
Perhaps, that is reason behind the choir’s recent short clips posts on YouTube, featuring their recent trips to France, singing ‘Cannabi’ to the airport security, in addition to an AI-generated short video clip of the song, to market it.
Kabusa Oriental Choir rose to prominence during the COVID and post-COVID era with their viral original songs ‘Valentine Is Coming’ and ‘The Corona Song’. Building on that momentum, they carved a niche for themselves with their signature choral remakes of popular Afrobeats and Amapiano tracks, including hits like ‘Tswalabam’, ‘Bandana’, ‘Soso’, ‘Soweto’, and ‘Jerusalema’.
In December 2023, they released ‘The 12 Days of Christmas (Awkward Gifts Edition)’, a humorous twist on the classic holiday tune. The video resonated with fans, earning 28,987 views and 2,300 likes on YouTube, further cementing their reputation for creativity and musical satire.
A key feature of the choir’s performance and one which their fans and viewers appreciate is their unique content approach.
When covering popular songs, the choir either gives it take – both rhythmically and harmonically – or re-writing the lyrics (particularly songs with morally questionable lines) of a popular song whilst maintaining its original sounds.
All the while it manages to retain its unique style, dance flair and comedic touch in every video.
Watching them grow year by year, and expand Abena’s story in ‘Valentine Is Coming’ from 1 – 5, has been a joy for both their local and international fans.
Hence, ‘Cannabi’s clean, fun-loving and good lyrics, deserves more love, as it’s a song loved ones, family and friends can vibe to.
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