Monday, April 12, 2010

gullah geechee

The Gullah are an ethnic group of Americans from South Carolina and Georgia with origins from Africa. Their music

culture stems from different elements of their heritage. Of the cultures in Africa listed I was familiar with the

term Wolof which is the culture belonging to Youssoo Ndour. The Gullah in order to survive in slavery and still

keep their African heritage combined their differences to give themselves an identity. The dance, chants, music,

singing of the many cultures were brought together to make a new form.

The Gullah culture isn’t all just dance and music, they also delve into the fine arts and crafts. The music of the

Gullah since its origins are rooted in Africa feature many drums ranging from small to large. The dances are also

radical with body movement and arm gestures. The dancers in the community will be cheered on by people watching

along side the drummers who are excited to celebrate. The singing aspect of the culture starts off with a melody

but quickly breaks down to a form of rap. The rap portion tells a story regarding the Gullah and their hardships of

old.

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