Falealili Uma

from Samoa Silasila by Bobby Alu

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about

This is my Mother’s village song. Our family is from Satalo which is a village in the district of Falealili. My grandad Fonoti was chief and highly respected. Last time I visited the village I saw the graves of 4 generations of grandparents. Falealili is famous for this song and it has become essentially a ‘victory’ song.

From Foloi
According to the book Tusi Pese Fatuga Tuai a Samoa, by T. Chande Lutu-Drabble, this version is actually a medley of two different songs – one called Falealili Uma and the other called Falefitu e Falealili ma Aleipata.

It’s something that happens a lot with traditional songs, probably because they tend to be very short. Samoans have lots of sing-alongs, and I guess over the decades we figured out that one song goes really well with another one (and maybe even another one), and then we just got used to singing them one after the other in specific combinations.

Falealili is a sub-district of Atua, on the southeastern coast of the island of Upolu. The sports reference is significant here because this song is a celebration of a victory, possibly in battle, but most likely in sport.

The sentiment is so contagious – the message so inspiring – that this song has become more than an anthem for just one district. It’s been borrowed time and again by Samoans from all villages as a celebration, a tribute and an expression of love for Samoa as a whole.

For so many Samoans who are not from Falealili but still (if a bit self-consciously) really cherish this classic song, a popular, tongue-in-cheek statement just might apply:
Aue, ua ta fia Falealili fua! Which means something like, “Gosh, all of a sudden I want to be from Falealili”.

This song expresses so much pride for a hometown and a people. It’s a call to arms for all of Falealili to stand together and press forward with courage and dignity.
Satalo - "O le to'oto'o o Falealili" - Mum's village

lyrics

Falealili uma I o ma o
Ta fia fa’alogologo I sou leo
Ua a’ave tala O le malo
Ua leai se manu E toe olo

Satalo e o le uso na toto
Teuteu ia le itumalo
Falealili e ia maopoopo
O le mea sili lea e malie ai lo’u loto

English translation
All of Falealili, here and there
I want to hear your voice
Word is spreading quickly, of the victory
Not a single bird is chirping

Satalo the brother that we acquired
Let’s make peace, bring our district together
Falealili let’s come together
The most important thing is you are happy/content

credits

from Samoa Silasila, released May 27, 2022

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Bobby Alu Byron Bay, Australia

Australian/Samoan Singer, Ukulele & Drummer Bobby Alu is backed by a slick band bringing fine roots music.

Island flave, rhythm, soul & pop. The perfect hammock music.

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