 | Alan P. Merriam, Valerie Merriam - Music - 1964 - 380 pages
...clarity. The informant at one point could not recall the sequence of important names in the scries he was giving. Under his breath, to the accompaniment...in explanation of his song stated that this was the Dahomcan method of remembering historic facts. The role of the singer as the "keeper of records" has... | |
 | Toyin Falola, Christian Jennings - Social Science - 466 pages
...point could recall the sequence of important names in the series as he was giving. Under his breath, to accompaniment of clicking fingernails, he began to sing, continuing his song for moments. When he stopped he had names clearly in mind once more, and in explanation of his song stated... | |
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Songs were and are the prime carriers of history among this non-literate folk. In recounting the ritual associated with the giving of offerings to the souls of those who were transported into slavery, this function of song came out with great clarity.... 