Chentiru Imchen
In the music scene of Nagaland, a new generation of artistes is emerging, but it’s the pioneers who laid the foundation for this thriving industry. Among these trailblazers is ‘Samaro,’ one of the state’s oldest bands.
Though the band’s lineup has changed over its three decades of existence, ‘Samaro’ currently features Saku Longchar, Temjen Aier, and Wati Jamir. Despite singing primarily in the Ao language, their appeal stretches beyond linguistic boundaries, resonating with fans across tribes and communities.
In conversation with Eastern Mirror, the band, represented by Wati Jamir, shared about their journey, impact, and the legacy they have built.
Read on…
When did the band start, and what genre does it belong to?
Samaro: The band was formed in 1992 while we were studying at Servanthood Bible College in Dimapur. We are a country gospel band that has released 14 cassette volumes to date and has been active for 31 years.
Why did you start the band?
Samaro: The main reason for forming the band was for Naga youths. During the 1990s, youth were consumed by drug abuse, and we wanted to help them. Many had unhealthy relationships with their parents as a result of drug and substance abuse, so we formed the band in the hopes of changing their lives. Our prayer is that they will at least hear a voice in their hearts that will empower their spirits.
How did the members of the band come together?
Samaro: Over the years and across various releases, our band has experienced changes in its lineup. Initially, it consisted of myself, Saku Longchar, and Temjen Victor for the first volume. In the second volume, Arenba Japu replaced Temjen Victor, and subsequently, Lima Imsong took over, remaining with us until the 14th volume. Lima Imsong has since departed, and currently, Temjen Aier has joined the band.
Have you written songs in any other dialects or languages?
Samaro: We have only written in Ao and have about 30 songs uploaded on YouTube.
Who writes for the band? What emotions do you experience when writing songs?
Samaro: I am the song writer and have written over 300 songs, 150 of which are sung by the band. The rest were all given to other Ao artistes.
When I write songs, it touches me, and I have often burst into tears because the words of the songs resonate deeply in my heart.
How do you find time to write songs and sing in between other commitments?
Samaro: Singing and songwriting are my passions. Family and other personal commitments do not pose a problem for me when it comes to writing songs—I always have enough time to dedicate to it. However, coordinating as a group to record and release songs takes time and has been rescheduled several times to accommodate everyone’s availability.
Have you remastered any of your popular songs?
Samaro: We have uploaded a remastered version of “Merenba Melenshioko” (Meren has changed) on YouTube in the month of April 2024.
Are you planning to release any new songs?
Samaro: Few songs are ready, but their release timing remains uncertain as it depends on the availability of the rest of the band members.
Have you ever had sponsors for your albums?
Samaro: Yes, our album “Christmas Samaro” was sponsored by Yanger, a generous Samaritan who contributed generously.
What do you cherish most about the band?
Samaro: Many parents are thankful to us for changing the lives of their children for the better. The sick have also found new hope and contentment through our songs, as people have shared their testimonies with us. We try to act like a bridge of peace between parent-child relationships through our songs.
Any message you would like to share?
Samaro: Coming from a musical background, listening to original songs in local languages composed by several Naga artistes brings me great joy. It’s important for musicians to embody the messages they sing. Love, support, and unity between singers and listeners are crucial.
Instead of living lives filled with jealousy, gratitude should prevail. Unfortunately, today, there is a noticeable amount of envy among artistes, leading to a competitive attitude rather than supportiveness. Without Christ, issues like envy, discontentment, and insecurities become apparent.
