Cumbayá (song)

"Cumbayá," also spelled "Kumbaya," is a spiritual song of African American origin, often categorized as a folk song or a gospel song. Its exact origins are debated, but it is believed to have emerged from the African American spiritual tradition sometime in the early to mid-20th century, possibly in the Southeastern United States.

The lyrics are simple and repetitive, typically featuring the phrase "Kumbaya, my Lord, kumbaya," repeated with variations. The word "Kumbaya" is generally understood to mean "Come by here" or "Come here, Lord." The verses often include other people or groups who are in need of divine assistance, such as "someone's crying, Lord, kumbaya" or "someone's praying, Lord, kumbaya."

The song gained wider popularity through its use in religious gatherings, summer camps, and civil rights movements. It became a staple in the repertoire of folk singers and community groups.

Over time, "Kumbaya" has sometimes been used pejoratively to refer to overly sentimental or naive expressions of unity and cooperation, particularly in political or social contexts. This usage often implies that a problem is being oversimplified or that genuine conflict is being ignored in favor of superficial harmony. Despite this negative connotation in some circles, the song remains a significant part of American folk music and continues to be performed and adapted in various settings.