Ilonggo folk songs often passed down through generations, serve as vessels for expressing the joys and sorrows of everyday life. “Ahay Kalisud,” in particular, delves into the depths of “kalisud” – a deep-seated sadness or hardship.
While nursing a wounded heart over a lost love in Capiz, Jovita Fuentes heard a maid sing a folksong that moved her. The lyrics reflected her sentiments. And so she documented, arranged, and popularized this kundiman.
“Ahay Kalisud,” a hauntingly beautiful song, resonates with a depth of emotion beyond time and language. It shows longing, sorrow, and the enduring human spirit. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal, capturing the essence of the Ilonggo soul.
Ahay Kalisud
Ahay! Kalisud
Kalisud sang binayaan.
Adlao gab-i pirmi ta ikao guina-tangisan
Ahay! Inday nga walay sing kapalaran
Wala guid, wala guid
Sarang ko kalipayan.
Ay cielo azul abao! diin ka na?
Buligui tabangi ang nabilango sang gugma
Mayad pa ang mamatay kun halus mamatay
Agud di ako makadumdum
Nga ako’y walay kalipay.
Ahay Kalisud (Tagalog)
Ay, Kay Lungkot!
Tagalog lyrics by José Corazon de Jesus
Ay! Ay, kay lungkot
Kay lungkot ang binayaan.
Gabi’t araw ay ikaw ang tinatangisan.
Ay! ay, naku kay sawi kong kapalaran
Wala na, wala na akong kaligayahan.
Ay mutyang sinta, nahan kaya ikaw baga?
Lingapin mo sana ang nabilanggo sa dusa.
Buti pang mamatay, tuluyang mamatay
Ng di ko na damdamin pa
Yaring sawing pagsinta
Ahay Kalisud (English)
English Translation
Oh, Despair!
Oh, despair!
That of one forsaken.
Day and night I pine for you
I am wretched
There is nothing to hearten me.
Alas! Beloved, where are you?
Turn to this prisoner of love.
Better to die, leave this life
That I may cease to endure
This misery.
“Ahay Kalisud” is more than just a song; it’s a window into the Ilonggo soul. It’s a reminder that even in the face of sorrow, there is beauty, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection. The next time you hear its haunting melody, take a moment to reflect on its poignant message and the shared human experience it represents.
Thank you for sharing the lyrics to “Ahay Kalisud.” It’s such a poignant and timeless Ilonggo folk song. The words beautifully capture the feeling of sorrow and longing. It resonates deeply even today.