The Yoruba people of West Africa honour a family of divine spirits called the Orisha. Ogun is the Orisha of iron, labor, and the cleared path. When the way is blocked, he goes first.

This is a song for him.

What to Expect. Hammer-on-iron percussion driving a work-song stomp Djembe, handclaps, and foot-stomps in a communal groove Bright highlife guitar and a strong, proud male lead West African folk fusion with modern indie production

About Ogun. In Yoruba tradition, when the Orisha first came down to shape the world, they found the way blocked by dense wilderness. Their tools of wood and stone failed. Only Ogun, working alone, forged tools of iron and cut the first path — so that every other Orisha could follow him into the world. For this he is honoured before every journey and new beginning.

He is the patron of all who work with their hands: the blacksmith and the builder, the driver and the surgeon. His blade can take a life or save one in surgery — such is his nature.

He teaches that honest labour clears the way, and that someone always went ahead of you.

This Song Is For You If You've Ever. - Been the first one in and the last one out - Built something with your hands that others walked across - Cleared a path so the people behind you had it easier

Whatever you're carrying, someone cleared the road before you — and you're clearing it for someone else.

"Carry Us Home" — songs for the Orisha of West Africa

These are living traditions, still practiced across West Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas today. Traditions vary by region and lineage — respectful corrections are always welcome in the YouTube comments.