I first heard the haunting "Senzenina" chant at the end of Peter Gabriel's anthemic tribute to anti-apartheid activist Steven Biko in the song titled "Biko". Biko was murdered by police in prison in South Africa in 1977.

Intense song, highly recommend it.

Gabriel powerfully sang the song at many of his concerts, often leaving the crowds chanting "Biko" long after the concert ended, with Gabriel signing off by saying "The song has done its job, now the rest is up to you."

I think that song, especially at the Conspiracy of Hope concerts for Amnesty International in 1986, played a significant part in keeping South African apartheid issues in the popular conscience. And then Mandela was released, and the rest is amazing history...

Great to finally learn more about "Senzenina" in this blog after being moved by the music for years.
Thanks, and thank you Peter Gabriel,