In an increasingly globalized world, traditional music often faces scrutiny and negative labeling that undermines its significance and value.
Critics dismiss traditional music as outdated, irrelevant, or inferior to contemporary genres, leading to a cultural disconnect and the potential erosion of rich musical heritages.
By recognizing the importance of traditional music, individuals foster a more inclusive understanding of cultural heritage that values diversity and promotes appreciation for the arts.
Traditional artist, Sherifa Gunu, has raised concerns about the negative labelling of traditional music, noting that the music style isn’t colonial (‘colo’), as had been projected, but a true reflection of Ghana’s music culture.
She’s saddened that at a time when Nigerians are busily promoting their identity and culture through their traditional music, Ghanaian musicians continue to shun and look down on a music genre that projects their uniqueness.
The artist, real name Osman Sherifatu Gunu, revealed that the dyed-in-the-wool damaging labelling of traditional music discourages some Ghanaian musicians from collaborating with her.
“It will interest you to know that many Ghanaian artists don’t want to work with traditional musicians because they think our music is too outdated and too ‘colo’. They act very big here, sounding like foreigners, but go abroad and suddenly play kora and drums. That’s just hypocrisy.
“Our brothers and sisters in Nigeria have seen the light and are seriously promoting their traditional music, and we sit back here and want to sound more original than the owners of the sound. Nigerian artists are leading because they know how to sell their culture. But here, when you even sing in your mother tongue, people describe it as too ‘local’ and ‘colo’, like it’s a bad thing. Until we fully embrace our sound, we’ll keep falling behind.”
Sherifa Gunu
Contemporary music trends are characterized by their accessibility, catchy melodies, and production techniques that resonate with modern audiences.
Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube have revolutionized how music is consumed, allowing listeners to discover new artists and genres with ease.
Additionally, the rise of social media has enabled viral trends, where snippets of songs gain instant popularity, often at the expense of deeper, more nuanced musical forms.
The immediacy and engagement offered by contemporary music overshadow traditional music, which often requires a deeper understanding and appreciation of its historical and cultural context.
Traditional music serves as a repository of cultural narratives, reflecting the values, struggles, and celebrations of communities across the globe. It is often tied to specific rituals, ceremonies, and social practices, making it an integral part of cultural identity.
For instance, the folk songs of Ireland tell stories of resilience and community, while Native American music often embodies spiritual connections to the land.
These traditional forms are not merely relics of the past; they are living expressions of cultural identity that deserve recognition and preservation.
When traditional music is labeled negatively, it diminishes its role as a cultural artifact and disrespects the narratives that accompany it.
Risks of Overshadowing Traditional Music
The dominance of contemporary music trends poses several risks to traditional music. As younger generations gravitate towards popular music, they lose touch with their cultural roots, leading to a homogenization of musical tastes and a decline in the transmission of traditional forms.
Furthermore, the commercialization of music result in the commodification of traditional sounds, stripping them of their cultural significance and reducing them to mere entertainment.
This shift not only threatens the survival of traditional music but also undermines the rich tapestry of human experience that these art forms represent.
While admitting that following music trends is attractive, Sherifa also cautioned young artists not to be swayed by ‘fast food’ music but to be authentic and walk in the paths of music greats such as Osibisa and among others, who are still relevant after many years because of their style.
“I don’t and never follow trends and the result is that my music is timeless. So, I want to entreat our artists to be themselves as Ghanaians. Unfortunately, it appears many of our artists forget where they come from just to gain quick fame. But look at legends like Osibisa, Amakye Dede and Angelique Kidjo—they stayed authentic and still made history. If you copy too much, you’ll disappear.”
Sherifa Gunu
To combat the overshadowing of traditional music, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Education plays a crucial role; integrating traditional music into school curricula foster appreciation among young people.
Additionally, collaborations between contemporary artists and traditional musicians create innovative fusions that honor the past while appealing to modern sensibilities.
Festivals that celebrate traditional music also serve as a platform for exposure and engagement, allowing communities to reconnect with their heritage.
As contemporary music trends continue to evolve and dominate the airwaves, it is essential to recognize and preserve the value of traditional music. These sounds are not merely echoes of the past; they are vital expressions of cultural identity and collective memory.
By fostering appreciation for traditional music and integrating it into the modern musical landscape, Ghanaians ensure that these rich heritage forms do not fade into obscurity.
Embracing traditional music not only enriches Ghanaian cultural landscape but also strengthens the bonds that unites as a global community.
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