This song represents the first collaborative effort between Joe Peters and Michael Kelsey.
rock
folk
singersongwriter
indiana
vietnam
rebirth
social weevils
joe peters
michael kelsey
joedai warriors
given birth
white river
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Story behind the song
Dai and I spent two years in the early 1990s living among rainforest villagers on the island of Madagascar. We learned so much from them about life and happiness, as they had so little material wealth but so much humor and courage. We were there ostensibly to help with the establishment of a new national park, but came away with a deep respect for Malagasy culture and traditions. This song was written in Indiana one night in 1997 as I sat lost in my memories of Madagascar and its people.
Lyrics
Malagasy Memories
Ayaway, Malagasy on your island adrift at sea
Ayaway, Malagasy won’t you come and rescue me
For I have seen your people dancing long into the night
And I have shared your roof and floor and fire shining bright
But now I miss your skin so dark your smile full of light
And I want to climb your deep green mountain where the spirits take to flight
Ayaway, Malagasy will they ever let you be
Ayaway, Malagasy all you want is to be free
I still remember your quiet voice your laughter of delight
And how you showed me to brave no matter what the fright
Do you remember I tried to help alleviate your plight
But in the end I still don’t know if I was wrong or right
Ayaway, Malagasy oh your life beneath the trees
Ayaway, Malagasy is there hope for you and me
You let me in to feel your pain you shared with me your sight
With you I sank to my deepest low and scaled my highest height
You taught me how to flow with life without putting up a fight
And how the weakest of the earth can overcome the might
Ayaway, Malagasy, Ayaway