FOLLOWING a stunning 1-0 victory against favourites Tunisia during the Afcon Group E opening match at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium, Namibia’s national football team, the Brave Warriors, not only warmed the hearts of ordinary Namibians but of artists too.
In response to this national triumph, Namibian hip-hop artist Nikanora Kamaaizemi Hoveka, popularly known by his stage name KP Illest, swiftly composed a song in praise of the national team titled “Brave Warriors”. KP Illest said the song’s creation was a quick and spontaneous response that took approximately one to two hours. The crucial part was ensuring that everyone’s name on the official Afcon list was included, as he did not want to leave anyone out.
”I wanted the boys in Ivory Coast to feel the support I have for them and be able to recall it when they need it. So, they can see that I used my time and resources to show them love. I thought it would mean more than a simple social media post,” he said.
The hip-hop star believes music is a medium to convey passion. He added that love songs resonate differently when you are in love, and similarly, these types of songs create a feeling and show people that the achievement is so significant that it deserves a song, similar to the Herero wedding tradition.
KP Illest said there were many moments and stories about the team that influenced the lyrics and melody of the song. He drew inspiration from top goal scorers in the Afcon qualifiers and players like Peter Shalulile and Deon Hotto, incorporating their names into the lyrics.
“We are ready, we are deadly, Muzeu, we are heavy, as you know in division one. Muzeu is our top goal scorer right now, and he is deadly. There are too many to mention. We are so proud of our boys, and we are behind them; we are fully supporting them wherever they are. They should know that we love them and we are so proud of them,” said the musician.
He highlighted the positive feedback received from players and fans, expressing gratitude to both for the warm reception of the song. The message of the song is clear, Namibia is not afraid, and the underdogs are here for “war”.
Drawing on the historical connection between sports and music, KP Illest dedicates the song to the Brave Warriors, acknowledging their hard work and the potential for collaboration between musicians and sports figures.
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