The beat has a rich and magnificent history

Full of adventure excitement and mystery

Some of it bitter and some of it sweet

But all of it part of the beat the beat the beat

They say it began with a chant and a hum

And a black hand laid on a native drum

Bantu Zulu Watusi Ashanti Herero Grebo Ibo

Masuto Nyasa Ndumbo Umunda Bobo Kongo

Hobo Kikuyu Bahutu Mossi Kisii

Mbangi Jahomi Fongo Bandjoun Bassa Yoruba

Gola Ila Mandingo Mangbetu Yosee Bali Angoli

Biombii Mbole Malinke Mende Masai

Maasai

Masai Masai