Origins and Evolution of Luo People’s Folklore Music: the Case of Ohangla Genre in Siaya County, Kenya

Abstract

This study focuses on the origins and evolution of the luo folklore music (ohangla) in Siaya county, Kenya. The study sought to establish whether the cultural, social and economic aspects of ohangla music have evolved over time and the role that advancement in technology has played in that evolution. Specifically, the study looked at the cultural ceremonies during which it is played, the venue, audience and the remuneration of musicians for their performance. It also looked at the role of technology: internet, radio and television and the influence of these on the performance of ohangla music today. Data was collected in three wards within Siaya sub-county where purposively selected respondents were interviewed using a questionnaire. Additional qualitative data was obtained through Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews. Key findings of the study indicate that ohangla traditional music is played for entertainment, during burial and wedding ceremonies. It is not used to transmit cultural values or teachings in the community. Some respondents reported that ohangla traditional music is nowadays played in public places such as bars, clubs and political rallies to an audience of diverse cultural backgrounds. This study also established that ohangla musicians consider their performance as a source of income and therefore must be paid to perform. For this reason, many of them are using the internet, television and radio to popularize their songs and increase their audience. Technology has taken ohangla music beyond the cultural boundaries of the Luo community. Some respondents felt proud of ohangla music because it gives them a sense of belonging. However, some respondents felt that ohangla is no longer useful to the community as a form of traditional music because it encourages immorality through songs with vulgar language. Conclusion The study observes that ohangla has gained popularity beyond the Luo community and the musicians consider it as a source of income. However, it no longer plays a cultural role other than entertaining guests. The introduction of new instruments in ohangla and the way it fuses with other genres makes it susceptible to further transformation. There is need to constantly document the various aspects of ohangla to keep track of the changes. This will provide a corpus of knowledge for the future generation to learn the history and evolution of ohangla music over time. The documentation will also provide an opportunity to identify the significant aspects of ohangla music that should be safeguarded in order to retain its identity and role in the community.