Making a video of youth singing the Marshallese National Anthem was a long-held dream … It became a reality thanks to six young ladies who kindly performed the Marshall Islands National Anthem for this website. So here’s a big kommool tata to
Andrea deBrum, Tolynn Lait, Unaisi Kuilamu, Jasmine Langrine, Mine David, and Bosseline David!
Thanks also to director and camera guy Hilary Hosia for his skills and talent and Colette Reimers who allowed us to film in the tropical gardens of Robert Reimers Hotel. You will see more thanks at the end of the clip.
A note on the introduction pages of the video clip: I sought the advice of many people on the topic of the name of the anthem, with varied responses. After much consideration the consensus was that Aelōn̄ Eo Ao (My Islands) is the preferred title.
Meanwhile, radio man and political commentator Fred Pedro wrote: “To the best of my recollection the national anthem is “Aelōn̄ Kein Ad” or “Our Islands.” He added in a later email: “Aelōn̄ Eo Ao ion lometo” is the first line to the national anthem translated as my island on the ocean.” Aelōn̄ Kein Ad” is the last line to same. Back in the mid 90s one of the musical schools in eastern US did the score and recorded the music which they translated as Forever Marshall Islands.”
Here’s the Marshallese lyrics:
Aelōn̄ eo ao ion lometo;
Einwot wut ko lōti ion dren elae;
Kin meram in Mekar jen ijo ilan̄;
Erreo an romak ioir kin meram in mour;
Eltan pein Anij eweleo im wōj;
Kejolit kij kin ijin jikir emol;
Ijjamin Ilok jen in aō lemoran;
Anij an ro jemem wonakke im kejrammon Aelin̄ kein ad.
And here’s the English translation:
My island (heart) lies o’er the ocean;
Like a wreath of flowers upon the sea;
With a (the) light of Maker from far above;
Shining with the brilliance of rays of life;
Our Father’s wondrous creation;
Bequeathed to us, our Motherland;
I’ll never leave my dear home sweet home;
God of our forefathers protect and bless forever Marshall Islands.
Lyrics source: Wikipedia.
