GUWAHATI: The latest Assamese song 'Ibaasi' by Papon along with Nigerian singer Niniola, aired on Times Square in New York on October 26.
Ibaasi is an Afro-Bihu fusion created by Papon and Niniola for Bhoomi 2023. The lyrics have been provided by Jyoti Deuri.
Himanta Biswa Sarma took to X to put out,” Wonderful! Moments like these fuel Assam’s collective aspiration of making Bihu a global phenomenon.”
Wonderful!
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) October 27, 2023
Moments like these fuel Assam’s collective aspiration of making Bihu a global phenomenon. pic.twitter.com/JjVuq8t89V
This remarkable collaboration encapsulates the essence of Assamese culture and music, integrating not only Bihu but also Deuri and Yoruba languages, creating a beautiful multicultural tapestry of sound.
"Ibaasi" is the fifth song unveiled as part of the Bhoomi 2023 project, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of Assamese and global music on an international platform.
Papon took on the roles of producer, composer, and Assamese lyricist for "Ibaasi," while Niniola co-composed and contributed in Yoruba and English.
The Deuri lyrics were crafted by Jyoti Deuri, and the music was brought to life by talented musicians, including Suraj Rava and Manasquam Mahanta on guitars, Tanmay Ray Choudhury on drums, Himangshu Das on bass guitar, Anowar Munu Hussain on keyboards, and Hriday Baba on percussion.
The rhythmic beats were enhanced by the skillful playing of the dhol by Lachit Baruah and Pity Borah.
The collaboration has garnered immense positive response from people across the state as well as the country, with the official video on YouTube having 4,09,039 views and 39,000 likes.
