One of the most astounding works of Art from Africa is the Yoruba talking drum. It is an hourglass- shaped wood with an inner cavity, covered on both ends by goat skin, and beaten by a curved stick called gongo. The fact that its pitch can be regulated makes it exceptional as messages to be passed by the drummer to the listeners. There is the Iya Ilu, Omele and gangan with danceable rhythms apart from their messages.
One of the greatest drummers of all times was Oba John Adetoyese Laoye, the late Timi of Ede who reigned from 1946 – 1975. He was not just an Oba but also a drummer with jaw-dropping dexterity which brought him a global fame. He learnt drumming from his maternal home.
In 1955, Obafemi Awolowo’s government popularised Radio system by introducing rediffussion boxes to the Western Region. The boxes attracted people like light does moth, especially during the news hours. The popular tune that heralded the news was a creation of Oba Laye’s drum in 1956.
MI MI DO DO MI MI, RE MI MI RE DO!
This was given so many interpretations which included:
BOLU BADAN BAKU, TA NI O JOYE? – Who will ascend the throne when Olubadan passes on.
OJOGEDE DUDU, INU TAKUN – He eats unripe plantain and suffers stomach disturbance
KO SO NIGBESE NIBI, LO SILE KEJI – There is no debtor here, go to the next house.
BELO GBADAMOSI, OLORI OLE – Belo Gbadamosi – the head robber.
EKO JEBADAN LOWO, THIRTEEN POUNDS – Lagos owes Ibadan thirteen pounds.
WHAT OBA LAOYE SAID WITH HIS DRUM WAS –
THIS IS NIGERIA BROADCASTING SERVICE!
By Dotun Oyeniyi
