Music-Culture XI

As is the case with almost all people of African descent, music is a significantly notable part of the daily lives of the Gullah people. Because they were forced to live together during the time of their slavery, they formed very close ties to each other. It is also because of this that the community is very important to them.

After the Civil War, when they lived in isolation from their former owners, they formed communities and took care of themselves. Because of the continuous shipment of African slaves to the parts where the Gullah live, they were able to keep most of their traditions alive. Because their ancestors were mostly from Western Africa, many of their traditions, including their music, are similar to those found in that region.

The Gullah people perform music in many places in their daily lives. Much of their music has religious roots. They sing in church. However, they also have traditional African customs which they have preserved over the centuries. They sing songs while digging graves, preparing food for the souls of the departed, and during the funeral ceremonies. They also sing during celebrations or just about whenever they come together, as a family or as a whole community.

Another important aspect of the Gullah music culture is that they tend to always dance with the music. This tradition, popular among most Africans, is a way to keep the rhythm alive. The music of the Gullah is not limited to singing. They use many instruments, many of which have roots in Western African countries such as Senegal and Sierra Leon.

Although a certain group may be performing, the audience is always welcome to join them in singing, dancing, or playing an instrument.