After the first minute into the song I realized that the singer style of poetry made his expressions different from regular speech.

My mother Fatoumata Dia happens to be visiting in the US, so I asked for her help. There was only one part where we could not make out what was being said. She explained to me that Habib Koite is from the Kayes region of Mali where they speak Kassonka and Bambara (the dominant language all over Mali). In addition, he sings in Sonraye the language of the one song of his I liked and had discovered after hearing sisters playing it. He might also speak Fulani. 

Habib Koite ~ “wari”

Tidiani, what thing you say I shall do for you. Today times are tough for me. Try to see if you can learn to walk on one leg.

No matter what, no humble one (“djon” actually means servant of higher authority, as in slave) knows the future.

If in your will you can help others. Know that helping others brings suffering. And, suffering’s remedy is happiness. Happiness will make you forget suffering.

I think of you, a father cannot do the impossible. A father does not wish pauverty on his offspring. Beggeting! I need help beggetting a child!

Tidiani, no one knows the future.

To the one who says today I have a headache. Tell them that if not with 100 CFA, an aspirin is not free

Tell them the beggar is sitting asking for alms by the road side. Tell them if they had the means they could be hope for others.

Regarding money, all men need to bring some home.

Anyone who wants to be a slave in this world, tell them: “fall in love with money.” Tell them: “I prefer have money than to be a slave.”

May all folks also bring home money, even if only for your food.Tell them: “lunch can’t be had of air”

Tell them; ‘The youngster is hanging at the side of the dourouni (public transportation), such is the way of an assistant ((assistant to the driver of the public transportation truck)).

Not such a noble way, but look for your income may man. Tell them: It is an ancient saying; money does not come peacefuly.

Tell them: It is not our truth; but money gets you out suffering.

If I had the means I would plant trees all over Mali, all over trees would bloom money (?)

This money issue, all need to get some, go tell them. I say, on this money issue, each man needs to get some.