Today we head to Nigeria, the most populous country on the African continent, home to many ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Hausa (pronunciation: house-uh), Yoruba, and Igbo (pronunciation: ee-bo). As you may know, the term “ase”—meaning “may it be so”—comes from the Yoruba language. Have you heard of Afrobeat, not to be confused with the popular “Afrobeats”? Afrobeat was created by the legendary Nigerian artist Fela Kuti through combining traditional Yoruba music with jazz, funk and other Black American genres. Afrobeat is vibrant and political and embodies Pan-Africanism. Take some time today to watch and enjoy.
TODAY’S PRACTICE:
WATCH The Genius of Fela Kuti and Afrobeat (link below)
DAILY REFLECTION: What songs and music did your family, loved ones, or ancestors give you?
RAISE YOUR VOICE Against the Erasure of Our Ancestors’ Stories and Culture