Maltese music has been revived in recent years thanks to a new wave of talented musicians, but despite the allure and excitement that original music brings, Maltese classics will always hold a special place in our hearts. We have our personal favourites of course, but for this list we're using YouTube to eliminate bias as much as possible. Here are some of Malta's highest ranking golden oldie tunes (according to YouTube):
Inhobbok ja hanina - Il-Budaj
Frans Baldacchino, or il-Budaj as he was more commonly referred to, was one of Malta's greatest folk singers. With his inimitable style and highly poetic flair, Fran's passing in 2006 left a gaping hole in the traditional music scene. Il-Budaj has many popular songs, but Inhobbok ja hanina (which translates to I love you merciful one) scores best with over 381,000 views to date.
Gensna
Mention Gensna to any Maltese person, old or young(ish), theatre fan or not, and you'll hear only one word: legendary. The rock opera, described as the story of the Maltese people, took the island by storm when it was first debut in 1979 and it's recent revival generated a similar reaction.
Although not part of the original cast, Mary Spiteri's rendition of Tema '79 (translation: Theme '79) is the highest ranking Gensna video to be found on YouTube with a staggering 283,000 views. The rock opera has so many great numbers though, that we couldn't just leave it at one!
Popular Maltese singer Renato formed part of the original cast and his rendition of Mitna Ghall-Barrani (translation: We died for the foreigner), performed at MCC in 2009, has garnered well over 135,000 views.
Il-Bajja tal-Mellieha - Sammy Bartolo
The lead singer for local band New Cuorey, Sammy Bartolo's legacy is the stuff of legends. Even though it's been 22 years since his demise, his music lives on to this day. His most popular song Il-bajja tal-Mellieha (translation: Mellieha Bay), with over 276,000 views on YouTube, is a beautiful ode to one of Malta's most beautiful beaches.
Id-diska tal-pastizzi - Fr David
What's Maltese music without a delightful touch of lighthearted humour? Your typical humming tune, the song revolves around one popular Maltese snack, you guessed it, pastizzi! The music and lyrics are so light and breezy that it will make you want to jaunt along to the nearest pastizzeria and indulge in a delicious (and super fatty) cheese pastry like there is no tomorrow. Seems like around 313,000 others share the same thoughts!
Xemx - The Tramps
One of Gozo's most famous bands of all time, The Tramps have several big hits to their name. One of their most popular tunes is their love song to Malta's sister island; Inti Djamant (translation: You're a Diamond). However, it's Xemx (translation: sun), a song about Malta's bountiful sunlight, that takes the top spot with an astounding 614,000 views!
SPECIAL MENTION: Maltese makjetta
Since we're at it, we couldn't not mention this video. Gathered in Pjazza Tritoni, Valletta, a group of men huddle around Gorg (vocalist) and Karmenu (guitarist) as they dive into a spirited rendition of a cheeky Maltese song. Guaranteed to make the grumpiest one of us smile!
Would you like us to translate some traditional songs for you?