The Hanuman Chalisa (a 40-verse Sanskrit hymn to the Monkey God, Hanuman) is an epic verse in Hindu mythology, and is one of the most widely performed pieces in the kirtan canon. While the song has been played in many different styles by many different artists, perhaps none have done it with the same charm and pure vibrant energy as Brenda McMorrow, a rising talent on the kirtan scene.
Brenda's truly original take on this revered chant -- "Hanuman Chalisa (Windblown Version)" -- melds devotion and fun into a dance-inducing whirlwind.
As for why Brenda felt so drawn to the Hanuman Chalisa, she explains that "singing to Hanuman can help us remember who we really are: One with the Divine. Hanuman is a reminder that truly all we need to do is to serve and love one another. Singing together– chanting the Divine names – encourages our hearts to open and the beauty of our true beings to shine.”
Shine on, friends. Shine on.
from
Hanuman Chalisa (Windblown Version),
released January 16, 2013
Hanuman Chalisa (Windblown Version) by Brenda McMorrow
(C) 2012 Ameya Music SOCAN
Produced and Engineered by Narada Wise at Supervolcano Studios, North Canton, Ohio
Mixed and Mastered by Ben Leinbach at Old Bull Studios, San Anselmo, CA
The Players:
Brenda McMorrow: Vocals and Acoustic Guitar
Narada Wise: Percussion, Keyboards, Programming, Harmony Vocals
Philippo Franchini: Acoustic and Electric Guitar, Electric Sitar
Jeff Ciampa: Bass
Beth Gatchell: Harmony Vocals
Cover Art by Jennifer Mazzucco
Design by Daniela Boifava
VIDEO (
www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-LImxGdKCc)
Hanuman Chalisa (Windblown Version) by Brenda McMorrow
(C) 2012 Ameya Music SOCAN
Videography by Robert Kingsbury
www.robertkingsbury.ca
Filmed at Shakti Yoga in Buffalo, New York.
Video features: Brenda McMorrow, Narada Wise, Beth Gathchell, Liz Abbott, Robert Kingsbury and the Divine Shakti Hanuman Dancers!