Nagas have a history of being great enthusiasts of Music. All the festivities of each tribes of Nagaland are enamored with music, folkdance and folksongs of great warriors, betrothed lovers, unreciprocated feelings, harvests, nature, spirits, religious rites and many more. Music in ancient Naga history was a way of storytelling, communication and a form of expressing deep thoughts and emotions.
With modernity, music and art in Nagaland have evolved owing to the influence of dynamic cultures of the globe. About a couple of decades ago, contemporary music in Nagaland was mostly limited to Country folk, Bollywood, and some Alternative Rocks/ Rock Music.
At present Naga artists are challenging their comfort zone and are experimenting music of various style diving into the pool of music genres and are making footprints in the industry. A pro for artists in Nagaland is the ability to make and release songs in multiple dialects and languages including English.
Growing up we have all heard and listened to ‘local’ artists in our own dialects. With more exposure to English language there has been a mass revolution in the music scene of the hills as a result of production of English bops! There are tons of critically acclaimed musicians and artists in Nagaland who are not only taking the region and the country by storm but also on various international charts as in the words of Moko Koza,
“Naga Manu khan bi komti nohoi.”
Today, we bring you a curated list of English songs by our own beloved artists which you definitely wouldn’t regret adding to your playlist. This list is completely subjective and based solely on personal preference. The list is in no specific order and includes different genres.
All the songs are available on Spotify!
Now let’s jump straight into it!
- Livin’ – Moko Koza feat. Ilmi Longkumer
Moko koza is ‘no cap’ a household name. Over the years he has build a stable community and a dedicated fan base especially among Hip Hop lovers. Livin’ is a track from his latest album ‘Naga Manu’ which was released in early January of 2023. It is an absolute favourite for the young souls trying to live the best life. The soulful voice of Ilmi Longkumer adds more color to the already rich sound that makes the listeners go “it’s the lyrics. No it’s the melody. Oh No! It’s the Rap.”
- To the Hill – Yanto Wangsa
“well I am going to the Hill where the grasses are green
Where the birds sing as the children play under the sun”.
Doesn’t the lyric already calm you? This is a very mellow track to listen to when you are tired of the hustle and bustle of your chaotic life. This track is so soothing to the ears which will get you imagining yourself in the luscious and peaceful Naga Hills, enjoying and basking “beneath the big big trees” without a worry in the world.
- Get over Me – Ket Meth
Of all the amazing releases from this artist, the latest release single ‘Get over Me’ is a favourite! This track is an easy listen one which will definitely aurify your playlist. Check out his other amazing releases as well!
- Human – Abdon Mech
Human is a track from the EP ‘From a Bamboo Room’ by the award winning Indie artist. It is about self reflection as a Human- that in all our glory and mess, in all our flaws and perfection at the end of the day we are all human. Sometimes negotiating with life and sometimes wishing to cease to exist altogether. We all live on in the hopes of better days. Honestly Abdon’s releases are all Darlings!
5 .Ocean Waves – Moondrip
Ocean waves by the duo project Moondrip could be your perfect summer song to jam to. With a retro sound and easy going melodies with relatable lyrics this song will definitely get you hooked from the first listen and grow on you even more from the second. It’s a treasure indeed!
6.More Love – Trance Effect
The effect of Trance Effect is real. More love from the EP ‘Clowns’ by this Indie Rock band is a track about reminiscing the good ol’ times wishing to write a new chapter with more love. You will surely fall in love. Reckon!
7.Backward – Nentong Konyak
It’s THE lyrical genius! Fans expect no mediocre from Nentong Konyak and he proves them right with every releases. Backward, released in the first quarter of 2023, is a Rap song backed with powerful delivery and heart wrenching message. You will regret not discovering this art sooner.
- Lullaby – Tsungchi
As the title suggests, ‘Lullaby’, the debut single by Tsungchi will lull you to a deep slumber ( In a sense that it appeases your tired soul). Its melody accompanied by the sound of cozy Ukelele and soft vocals will serve as the perfect pill when you find yourself tossing and turning in your bed on those insomniac nights. Add the song to your playlist now!
- Castles – Polar Lights
The list can’t be any better without this legendary Indie rock Band! Polar lights has been in the industry for a while now but it is never too late to discover great music. From the band’s latest album ‘To feel Human’ ,Castles is an explicit note to loved ones before leaving for good. For people who enjoys deciphering dark lyricism and messages while listening to band music, ‘Castles’ is for you.
- Midnight Disco – Temsu Clover
The list cannot be wrapped up without a song by our beloved Indie Queen. If Indie is your cup of tea, ‘Midnight Disco’ is ready to row your boat. No. You must not miss this!
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