Africa · Middle Africa
Gabon
World Music Atlas — 2026 Founding Edition
Emerald Forests of Gabon
The song celebrates Gabon's rich natural landscapes, cultural traditions, the capital Libreville, and its journey to independence.
SoundA fusion of African makossa rhythms and traditional Gabonese musical styles featuring the balafon, vibrant hand percussion, and heartfelt choral harmonies in a lively tempo.
Lyrics
[Intro]
In the heart of Africa, where the equator runs through,
Lies Gabon, a land of wonders, wrapped in green hues.
[Verse 1]
Where the Atlantic kisses the coast so grand,
And Libreville stands proud in this lovely land.
From the Ogooué River flowing wide and free,
To the lush Loango, with wildlife to see.
[Pre-Chorus]
Gabon, Gabon, a forest so dense,
Your spirit and culture, in every sense.
[Chorus]
Oh, Gabon, emerald forests and vibrant hearts,
With every step, your beauty imparts.
From mountains high to valleys so low,
In Gabon, let the music flow.
[Verse 2]
Listen to the echoes of the Bwiti drums,
Tales of tradition where the Iboga hums.
Pygmy tribes in the forest deep,
Guardians of secrets that history keeps.
[Chorus]
Oh, Gabon, emerald forests and vibrant hearts,
With every step, your beauty imparts.
From mountains high to valleys so low,
In Gabon, let the music flow.
[Bridge]
In the time of independence, nineteen sixty came,
For this African nation, forever to remain.
Rich reserves of oil beneath the land,
Brought prosperity, a future so grand.
[Final Chorus]
Oh, Gabon, emerald forests and vibrant hearts,
With every step, your beauty imparts.
From mountains high to valleys so low,
In Gabon, let the music flow.
[Outro]
Gabon, Gabon, land of green and gold,
A story of nature, culture, told.
From Libreville to the wilds beyond,
Gabon, forever in our song.