E Papa Lyrics
Herbs
Lyrics
E papā Waiari
Taku nei mahi
Taku nei mahi
He tuku roimata
Ē aue, ka mate ahau;
E hine hoki mai rā
E hine hoki mai rā
E papā Waiari
Taku nei mahi
Taku nei mahi
He tuku roimata
Ē aue, ka mate ahau;
E hine hoki mai rā
Māku e kaute
Ō hīkoitanga
Māku e kaute
Ō hīkoitanga
Ē aue, ka mate ahau
E hine hoki mai rā
E hine hoki mai rā
E hine hoki mai rā
Song & Lyrics Facts
Herbs - E Papa is a song by the New Zealand reggae band Herbs, released in 1983 on their album What's Be Happen? The single was written by Dilworth Karaka and Charlie Tumahai.
It was one of the group’s most successful singles, reaching number 2 on the New Zealand Singles Chart. The lyrics are a call to arms for Māori people to stand up against racism and injustice. The song speaks of the need for unity among all indigenous people and condemns those who oppress them. The chorus includes the line “E papa whakamaua!” which translates to “Let us unite!” This song has become an anthem for the Māori people and continues to be sung today.