THE AFRICAN MUSICIAN AS A SOCIAL REFORMER: A PERISCOPIC ASSESSMENT OF ÒRÌSÀ OKO FESTIVAL MUSIC OF ÓKÉMẸ̀SÍ-ÈKÌTÌ. SOUTH WEST NIGERIA

  • Báyọ̀ Ògúnyemí, Ph.D.

Résumé

This paper is a descriptive account of the reformative function of music in Africa.  The article is based on data collected during the performance of Òrìsà Oko festival in Òkèmẹ̀sí Èkìtì, Èkìtì State, Nigeria.  The paper explains the musical practices employed by the Yorùbá people of South West Nigeria in curtailing social vices and delinquencies that constitute social nuisances. It equally attempts to extend discussions on functions of music in Africa to that of maintaining social cohesion and upholding values. Through descriptive analysis of the song-text, musical practices and other essential musical contents, the paper gives insight into those roles of traditional Yorùbá music that are intended to effect behavioral change. Exploring Ethnomusicological approach, the paper relies on Ethnographic methods to extrapolate the primary data from the selected ensemble. The study concludes that Òrìsà Oko festival music otherwise called Gbegberekúgbe, holds much promise in the regulation of societal immoralities and crimes and such should be advanced in principles and practice. It suggests that music like Gbegberekúgbe music, should have a place in today’s society that is fraught with ill behaviors.

Publiée
2022-03-08
Rubrique
Articles