The Importance Of Music In Somalia

Taste of music varies according to different places. Similarly, African Music is different in different parts of the continent. In some parts one will feel the effect of western music, while in other the music is traditional. Moreover, the usage of hand drums and percussion is evident in the music of West Africa. For the people of Africa, music is usually an expression of their feelings. The folk songs include the hardships of day to day life.

Somalia is located on the outer edge of Somalia Peninsula and therefore called the Horn of Africa. Somalia has a horrendous history of famines, droughts and being the home to infamous privates. Therefore like many other African nations, it also is a poor state. But being economically poor did not affect their cultural growth. Somalia has a rich music tradition evolved out of Somalian folklore. Drums, guitar, bass, and woodwinds figure are used heavily when it comes to Somali music. The music history is rich coupled with traditional music, folk songs and dances.

Songs play a great part in connecting people with different ethnicity. African music is an expression of joy, love and bravery. Their folk songs are usually dedicated to the bravery of their men during war and hardships. This music provides a platform to African music enthusiast residing in different parts of the continent. The music and song depict their various emotions and glorious pasts. Preserving ones heritage is extremely important to the culture. The Somalis have rich cultural history, and songs are the medium to keep them alive for years to come.

Somali songs are a sweet product of collaboration between the singer (Codka), music director and lyricist (midho). Bands including Waaberi and Horseed have been quite successful in the revival of Somali music. Other singers, such as Maryam Mursal and Ahmed Cali Cigal have blended the traditional somali music with the western music. This has made them very popular amongst youngsters. Amongst others, Rock and roll, bossa nova and jazz are churned with traditional music to create fusion.

Sadly, the youngsters of Somalia are immensely influenced by the western music bands, like Blues and Jazz. Their tradition and roots are on the verge of getting extinct. They have forgotten the music tradition of their nation. Parents must stress on the importance of culture and should try their best to pass on the value of their glorious heritage to their children.

Somalia music industry is inchoate and has immense possibility of growth. A live musical concert at the seashore is the specialty of Somalian music. People from around the world come over to enjoy this divine show. However, musician in Somalia face the lack of resources and do not get desired cooperation from the government. The new generation should try to spread their music tradition all across the globe. If done effectively, the industry can prosper in a very short span. It can help in gaining recognition and creating economic sustainability in the nation.