The subtle Art Of cultural Aphorisms by talking drummers

By observing the Yoruba culture there is a realisation that some literary aphoristic expressions have gained longevity due to its influence by drummers. Aphorisms are a concise, witty form of oral expression, often a memorable phrase that can represent a general truth, or a thought-provoking observation used to communicate ideas and preserve traditions.

There are very few unified theories of aphorism out there, but for this piece, let’s say aphorisms can be in the form of Maxims; a general truth or fundamental principle; Proverbs: a short statement that offers advice and instructions, or an Epigram: a concise statement expressing an idea in a clever and amusing way, which adds humour or satire.

Now, the Yoruba native drums such as the talking drum (ilu gangan) and sakara are one of Africa's most iconic and culturally significant instruments used predominantly by Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria. Speaking with Mr. Kunle Ayanlowo, the erstwhile lead talking drummer for Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) reaffirms, that the talking drum is not only a musical instrument, but a tool used for communication. By playing the talking drum, many veteran talking drummers, especially persons from the lineage of traditional drummers Àyàn are able to excellently mimic the tonal Yoruba language to sound like human humming thereby adapting well established Yoruba proverbs or maxims into percussion phrases, hence ‘talking drum’.

This traditional musical art has allowed proverbs and other forms of poetry to be maintained through drums and passed from one generation to another. These aphorisms can be developed into a form of musical interlude called Àlùjó, which is a percussion arrangement (groove) in form of repeated phrases that can be used to maintain the rhythm and tempo of the music piece.

For instance, consider the popular Yoruba maxim, Àjà ló lerù, iró ni Pepe ńpa. The loft does the heavy lifting, while the shelf is pretentious. Meaning It doesn't matter how capable a person or thing appears to be, it doesn't always reflect effectiveness or efficiency. Another is the proverb, Igi tí a fèhìn tì, tí ò gbani dúró, bó wó lu ni, kò lè pani. It means a tree which we rest on and doesn’t support us, if such a tree falls on us, it can’t be the end of us. It teaches that it’s okay to let go, and move on from something or someone deemed important, however we derive no benefit from. This phrase although common to many native Yoruba speakers, has been further adapted into a widely acclaimed rhythmic groove by talking drummers, reinstating how Yoruba poetry and philosophical observations has been maintained through drums.

Also, very rich metaphors are used to express Yoruba aphorisms, for instance, Òkè apatapìtì, atóbaba mápenìkan ní baba. A mighty mountain is truly incomparable and should be unrivalled. This phrase has been mostly used traditionally as a eulogy to God the creator. Listening to the musical record, ‘Aiye’ by Chief (Dr) Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, you will recognise the recurring percussion groove by the talking drummers communicating this phrase.

Veteran talking drummers are also capable of composing novel literary expressions, a vehicle for experimental poetry, by adapting their poetic ideas into drum pattern. Recent epigram such as Òtá tó gara sí mi, tó gara sí mi, tó wúlo tó wúbò, wúlo tébò, wúlo tébò, à bó rí tayín ni, (someone with oppressive tendencies will eventually be ridiculed) composed by Mr. Ayankunle Akinola. The phrase, when said in the native Yoruba tongue might sound uncouth, but it’s an example of a cultural satire that is humorous and acts to highlight and challenge oppressive tendencies in the society. When played during a musical performance, it becomes a tool that stirs solidarity and spurs excitement among people.

My conversations with Mr. Kunle Ayanlowo, and Mr. Lekan Olaleye (Kiab) shows that the urge to produce aphorisms in line with percussion rhythm is a creative experience often described as an enjoyable, sometimes spontaneous that can be based on personal experiences or conventional facts. It could be a reflection of humour, satire, or philosophical observation that connects the composers with the listener. Cultural aphorisms therefore form part of the rhetorical instrument used to complement the melody and message of the lead singer. However, there is little intentionality in appreciating the literary ingenuity that goes into these compositions and the use by native drummers that has found its way into our music and culture.

There is an exhaustible list of Yoruba phrases adapted by talking drummers, into drum rhythms with its influence in gospel, fuji, juju and apala music. What is equally charming about great Yoruba aphorisms and drums is its applicability in different occasions such as weddings, naming ceremonies, and other social gatherings.

Since the empirical test of aphorisms is wisdom, and longevity, the traditional perspective of adapting Yoruba phrases into drum rhythms makes it an enduring form. Therefore, once the ears are tuned to the talking drum sounds, there is a possibility to be inspired by its sayings and appreciate the ingenious poetic prowess of some skilled drummers.