Poonam Singh’s ‘Guyana’s lullaby’ echoes melodies of a rich culture untapped

Mar 01, 2026 News, Waterfalls Magazine, Xtra Entertainment

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(Kaieteur News) – Some songs are written in studios, others are carefully planned over months, but some are simply born from the magic of timing and destiny.

For Guyana’s celebrated singer, Poonam Singh, “Guyana’s Lullaby” was exactly that. The songbird is currently on a radio tour promoting her newest single, which premiered on YouTube earlier this week, and has hit the local airwaves with a bang.

In an interview with Melicia Pertab-Alli, host of the musical series on Kaietuer Radio ‘Melo-vibes,’ Singh told her fan base that the new single is inspired by Madonna’s ‘La Isla Bonita.’ Poonam’s version, however, speaks to Guyana, infused with sounds of the tassa drums and steel pans as well as scenes showcasing the nation’s ruggedly beautiful indigenous terrain.

She said that the idea came to her while on a drive through Georgetown.

“One evening, while casually driving through Georgetown, the familiar melody of La Isla Bonita by Madonna played on the radio.” Like many of us, Poonam said she sang along.  She said, “But something unexpected happened. The lyrics began to change effortlessly and naturally, incorporating Guyana in it.”

“It wasn’t calculated and wasn’t strategic, it was love. When she got home, she decided almost jokingly to post a TikTok of herself singing the rewritten version over the instrumental. Just for fun, within hours, the video exploded with comments pouring in from Guyanese at home and abroad.”

“Please do a full studio version”, “We need this on Spotify”, “I want to play this in my car on my way to work”

At first, she said she brushed it off. Poonam is known for writing and composing her own original melodies, but reworking an existing rhythm wasn’t her usual creative lane. But when a second, longer version also went viral, and the demand only grew louder, she realised something powerful. This song didn’t belong to her alone anymore; it belonged to her people.

And that was the moment “Guyana’s Lullaby” became real instead of a tribute to a distant island; her words became a tribute to Guyana, its beauty, its warmth, its magic.

Determined to give her supporters what they asked for, Poonam stepped into the studio with producer Darrell Pugsley of DP Records. She didn’t just sing the track; she wrote it, performed it, edited it, and directed the entire vision herself. But she didn’t stop at the music; she really wanted the visuals to feel like home, so she decided to take her viewers on a breathtaking journey across Guyana to Region 8 (Kato Village), the Amazon Rainforest, the Rupununi Savannah, the Georgetown Seawall, and Stabroek Market.

Every scene was intentionally chosen by Poonam to remind Guyanese of what makes our country extraordinary. From lush green landscapes to iconic city landmarks, the video isn’t just beautiful, it’s patriotic, emotional, and deeply personal.

PATRIOTIC THEMES

Long before “Guyana’s Lullaby” captured hearts, Poonam Singh had already cemented her place as one of Guyana’s most respected musical voices. One of her most defining moments came with the release of her patriotic tribute “GUYANA’” launched in celebration of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

The song became more than a commemorative track, it was embraced as a heartfelt tribute to our nation’s resilience, diversity, and beauty. For many Guyanese at home and in the diaspora, it became a soundtrack of pride during a historic milestone in the country’s journey.

Her musical achievements continued to reflect both local and international impact; her single “Happy Place” reached #1 on the iTunes Chart in Guyana, showcasing her strong connection with her home audience.

“Forever Alone” broke international ground by reaching the Top 25 on the iTunes Chart in Norway, proving her artistry resonates far beyond the Caribbean. Her collaborations like “Touch Meh” (featuring Natural Black) highlighted her versatility and ability to blend genres seamlessly. Poonam’s consistent catalogue of original music, which includes “Life Is Your Gift”, “Unspoken”, and “Hold On”, reflects her depth as a songwriter and storyteller.

Beyond chart positions, her greatest success may lie in something less measurable, her ability to unite people through music. Whether it’s a patriotic anthem or a soulful ballad, Poonam has continuously used her voice to uplift, inspire, and represent Guyana with pride.

MORE THAN MUSIC

What makes Poonam’s story powerful isn’t just the viral success. It’s her mindset. She speaks openly about the tears, the hard work, and the consistency required to chase a dream. Her message is clear: “If you have a dream, chase it even if it feels impossible, even if it takes years, be a lion or lioness. Stand strong even when you stand alone. In a world filled with doubt and noise, choose focus. In a world quick to criticise, choose creativity.”

While she keeps her upcoming projects low-key, Poonam believes strongly in protecting her energy. She confirms new music is on the way, and if “Guyana’s Lullaby” has shown us anything, it’s that when passion meets purpose, magic happens.

She believes “Guyana’s Lullaby” is more than a song; it is a reminder that sometimes the greatest creations come when you least expect them during a simple drive home, with your heart leading the way.

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• Culture, Guyana’s lullaby, Melodies, Poonam Singh

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