Djeli (known as "griots" in French) are
praise-singers
who have a special place in Burkinabč society. Djeli
are called
upon to recite from memory the names and accomplishments
of all the past emperors or chiefs, at each successive
ruler’s funeral. Traditionally djeli also intervene
in some family disputes. For example, if a couple’s
parents are opposed to them marrying they might run
away from home. The djeli might visit the father and
praise him for his wisdom and ask for forgiveness.
Then the djeli goes to the young man to praise him.
In this way, the djeli acts as a go-between so that
the families can forgive the couple and they can return
home. Nowadays, djeli are likely to be heard at social
gatherings. They may play modern instruments, including
the electric guitar, as well as more traditional ones.
Traditional music is played in cabarets (bars which
serves millet beer from polished gourds).
The well-known band
Farafina comes from the south-west of Burkina Faso.
This group travels around the world playing at gigs,
including the WOMAD festival in the UK.
Listen
to Rodrigues playing djembé drum
with WAMDE,
a children's music, dance and theatre group.
Listen
to traditional Burkinabč songs,
sung by women and children in Siguin Voussé village.
To listen to the clip,
your computer may need to have special audio software.
You can download audio software for free at realaudio.com.
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