UUCJEFF@ECNCDC.BITNET (jeff beer) (02/09/90)
According to the liner notes of "JUJU Roots", juju emerged as a distinctive style in Lagos around 1932, the generaly recognized founder is Tunde King. It emerged in the Yaruba section of Lagos, and many of the people were descendencts of emancipated slaves from Brazil and Cuba, plus Yaruba repatriates rescued from the slave trade by the British pquadron. In addition, Lagosian music was under the influence of the proselytizing efforts of Islam and Christianity, each bringing in its musical influences. In the 20s there were two technological factors, cheap Western guitars, and the phonograph. Most popular in Lagos were Jimmie Rodgers, Cuban rhumba, Hawaiiwan guitar bands (Sunny Ade has the steel guitar featured in his band), British ballroom, plus musics of the West African region. The early JuJu was acoustic, of course, and in the 40s it was changed by the addition of amplified guitars. In addition, PA systems allowed more flexibility in using more traditional percussion instruments, especially the "gangan" or "adamo" talking drum. Obviously it brings in talking drum players, who bring in a strong Yaruban identity. Tempos slowed, whole bands of afro-cuban instruments where brough in, and the number of vocalists where increased to that of a chorus. -taken from liner notes of JuJu Roots, on Rounder Records. This album has recordings from the 30s and 40s, including some by Tunde Kunde. Needless to say, the sound quality is not up to par, but for those interested in the history, it is valuable. Jeff Beer