It Began in Afrika

The Chemical Brothers

About It Began in Afrika

"It Began in Afrika" is a song by British electronic music duo The Chemical Brothers. It was released as the first single from their fourth album Come with Us on 10 September 2001. Originally named "Electronic Battle Weapon 5" and released for DJs as a white label in June 2001, "It Began in Afrika" became a hit in clubs and was renamed for its official release. The song contains vocal samples from the track "Drumbeat" by American musician Jim Ingram. The official release of the song came four months before Come with Us. The song received positive reviews from critics, and reached number eight in the UK Singles Chart. Despite this, the song does not feature on either of the standard versions of their singles compilations Singles 93–03 or Brotherhood, although the latter featured the original white label version on its bonus disc. 


Year:
2001
2:52
64 

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The Chemical Brothers

The Chemical Brothers are a British electronic music duo composed of Tom Rowlands and Ed Simons. Originating in Manchester in 1991, along with The Prodigy, Fatboy Slim, The Crystal Method, and fellow acts, they were pioneers at bringing the big beat genre to the forefront of pop culture. more »

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Written by: EDMUND JOHN SIMONS, JIM INGRAM, THOMAS OWEN MOSTYN ROWLANDS

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Release and Success
"It Began in Afrika" was released by the Chemical Brothers in September 2001. It soon became a big hit, reaching number eight on the UK Singles Chart.
Composition
The song samples drum beats and vocal chants from African tribal music, reflecting the title's theme.
Structure
The track has a unique structure where it gradually builds up, breaks down in the middle, and then builds up again.
Conceptual Theme
"It began in Afrika" is a reflection of the Chemical Brothers' belief that Africa is the birthplace of rhythm and music.
Album Appearance
The track is featured in their fourth studio album "Come with Us", which was released in 2002.
Television Appearance
The song was used in the twelfth season of the popular TV show "Top Gear."
Music Video
The music video for "It Began in Afrika" includes vibrant and colorful animation featuring African tribal art.
B-side Tracks
It also features two B-side tracks titled "Hot Acid Rhythm 1" and "Galaxy Bounce."
Vinyl Release
"It Began in Afrika" was first released as a white label vinyl in June 2001.
Limited Edition Release
There was a limited collector's edition vinyl which featured "It Began in Afrika" coupled with a DJ tool called "Electronic Battle Weapon 5."
Dance-floor Favorite
The song is a favorite among many DJs due to its energetic and rhythmic beat, making it perfect for the dance floor.
Charity Work
Initial copies of the "It Began in Afrika" were sold to help raise funds for charities involved with helping developing countries.

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