email from Paul Wambi, in Entebbe, Uganda (East Africa)
Hi Charlie Gillett
I must say I do enjoy your music programme with great selections from all over the world although I must admit I miss some of your programmes due to the shift work nature of my job.
I also appreciate your in-depth and articulate research of all the artists whose songs you feature.
My request to you is unique but somehow I've come to the conclusion that's its only you who can unravel my greatest musical mystery.
There's a song that came out in 1982 or 1983 that was called AMIO(AMIYO?) and was popular throughout Africa, (apparently a one hit wonder) done by a lady artsist and is still popular on most radio stations world wide including the BBC World Service. Many other versions have been done since.
My question is who sang the original version? What is the origin of the artist? And what was she singing about? Is it possible to get hold of the lyrics of this song?
This query was also asked by one of the lady presenters of Network Africa early this year when she played it as a musical break on her proramme. She was in turn asking any of her vast listening Afraican audience if they had a clue to the identity of the artist.
So either I missed out on the answer or she was equally unsuccessful.
It appears the song was promoted via pirated audio casette when it was originally released in the early 1980's for the African market and believe me there is not a single local radio station who play it that has a clue.
Charlie, I would be most grateful if you really filled me in on this one especially via my e-mail address as I'm a shift worker and may miss out on any reply you may have for me over the radio.
Regards
PAUL,
ENTEBBE,
UGANDA,
EAST AFRICA.