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South Africa National Anthem is a neo-modal anthem, unlike the anthems of other countries of the world. The anthem changes key, beginning in one and finishing in another. The anthem has been composed combining two songs.
South Africa National Anthem- History:
Prior to 1994, when South Africa held its democratic elections for the very first time, there were two anthems prevalent in the nation. ‘Die Stem’ was recognized as the official South African anthem where as ‘Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika’ was South Africa’s unofficial anthem.
The unofficial anthem of South Africa was popularly sung by the masses in expressing their anti apartheid-feelings. This song found frequent expression in anti-apartheid meetings and rallies. It helped to enliven the spirits of the patriots, who fought for the freedom of their nation.
In composing the official anthem for independent South Africa, the two songs have been amalgamated together.
South Africa National Anthem- Composition
‘Die Stem van Suid Afrika’, which in English means ‘The Call of South Africa’, was authentically a poem composed in 1918 by CJ Langenhoven. In 1921, the tune for the anthem was developed by Reverend ML de Villiers.
The lyrics of the National Anthem of South Africa represent an interesting synthesis of five popular languages of the country. These are Zulu, English, Sesotho, Afrikaans and Xhosa.
South Africa National Anthem, ‘Die Stem van Suid Afrika’ received government acceptance in 1957 although it was first performed at a public gathering in 1928.
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