In recent years, a fascination with ‘Afro-beats’ in many different genres has emerged. Artists of all stripes have begun incorporating the unique syncopations into their compositions and even added reference to the source of these rhythms to some genre names, but where do these beats come from and what do they signify? Enter Rasaki Aladokun of Nigeria, a master drummer and son of a master drummer who has played with notable musicians both in Nigeria and across the world. Directed by Eve A. Ma, Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá seeks to elucidate the origins and symbolic meanings of Nigeria’s rhythms and the drums that make them.
After touring the world with King Sunny Adé, a leading Juju performer, Rasaki decided to settle down in California. Eve A. Ma leads the conversation with the talented traditional drummer, taking us on an ethnomusicological journey through Yorubá traditions using the life and experience of Rasaki as a touchstone. We learn about his early life in Nigeria, how he became a famous local and regional museum, and how artists like Rasaki fit into the tapestry of Nigerian culture, playing for weddings or funerals and even entertaining kings. Rasaki also helps to explain the symbolic meanings of the drums in Yorubá religious ceremony, explaining how some represent gods or spirits while others represent moralities or forces of nature. With his experience and talent as a percussionist, the viewer learns how the rhythmic strands of modern American music run all the way back to Africa.
Those interested in a number of topics will be excited to see this documentary. The production is a bit dated and amateurish in style, feeling like the amateur documentaries of the 90s instead of something that came out in 2024, but those who want to learn about Nigerian culture, Yorubá religion, and African rhythms will have few complaints. Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá is information-dense, and Rasaki has a lot to share from technique to performance and personal insights about the culture he was raised in. This music documentary is a valuable addition to any high school or college music education collection. Highly Recommended.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá?
Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá would be particularly relevant for courses in:
- Ethnomusicology
- African Studies
- Anthropology
- Music History and World Music
- Sociology (especially in cultural and religious contexts)
- Performing Arts (particularly drumming, percussion, and traditional music) The documentary’s exploration of Yoruba drumming traditions and the deeper cultural significance of the rhythms would be valuable in these academic fields, providing a comprehensive understanding of the cultural context behind Afrobeat and its global influence.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation programs could use Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá in community education initiatives, especially in areas that focus on cultural diversity, music education, or community engagement through arts. The documentary could serve as the foundation for cultural awareness programs, introducing local communities to African drumming traditions and the Yoruba cultural heritage. Additionally, it could inspire workshops or performances related to traditional drumming, providing a hands-on learning experience for people of all ages.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá?
When screening Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá in public venues, libraries, or educational institutions, obtaining Public Performance Rights (PPR) is necessary. These rights would allow organizations to show the documentary to larger audiences in public settings, such as classrooms, cultural events, or film festivals. Ensuring that proper licensing is obtained is essential to comply with copyright law and avoid legal issues when hosting public screenings.
How could Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá enhance special events on college campuses?
Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá could enhance special events on college campuses by serving as a gateway for discussions about African culture, world music, and the role of music in cultural identity. The film could be used in cultural festivals, music series, or events focused on African history and music. The documentary would be a great fit for an event that combines film screening with live performances of Yoruba music or drumming workshops, providing a comprehensive and engaging cultural experience for students.
Why is Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá a strong candidate for movie licensing?
Rasaki’s Drums and Nigeria’s Yorubá is a strong candidate for movie licensing due to its rich cultural content and its exploration of the Yoruba drumming tradition, a vital element of African music that has significantly influenced global music genres. The documentary appeals to academic institutions, cultural organizations, music lovers, and those interested in African history and spirituality. Licensing this documentary for educational purposes or public screenings would allow more people to engage with and learn about the significance of African rhythms and the role they play in modern music.