Rhythm of the Rocks / Obwisana
Song of the Month · 2018
Downloads
This is a wonderful chant from Ghana which I used as a chorus, adding lyrics and verses to expand the song. You can just use the chorus (chant) as the traditional rock passing game (instructions on the next page), or keep a steady beat with your hands. My best friend, Marylee Sunseri and I recorded it on our 1994 recording, 'Rhythm of the Rocks', and it remains a favorite song of teachers, librarians, and of course, children of all ages! (The recording won an ALA Notable Recording Award and Parent's Choice- you can find it HERE on my shop page). Since recording it many years ago, I've written 2 additional verses which are included here.
Lyrics
Listen to the rhythm of the rocks
What would they say if they could talk
So many years down under the ground
Listen to the sound, listen to the sound
CHORUS: Obwisana, sa -na, obwisana, sa
Obwisana, sa -na, obwisana, sa
Rocks in your pockets and rocks in your hands
Rocks from the water and rocks from the land
Rocks that have traveled many a mile
Rocks making music, making us smile (chorus)
Find me a rock that's smooth and round
Find me a rock down under the ground
Find me a rock that I can pound
Listen to the sound, listen to the sound (chorus)
Rocks that the ocean brings to the land
Smoother by the sea and smooth in your hand
Rocks making rhythm for all to hear
Rocks making music far and near (chorus)
Free for any non-profit use. Please credit Nancy Stewart and link to nancymusic.com.