Creolization in English Caribbean Music

In this blog we will focus and explore on the theme Creolization in English Caribbean music based on the textbook 'Tour de Force: A Musical Journey of The Caribbean.'.

One example that stood out to me was the Rake 'n' Scrape done in The Bahamas. This particular genre blends African and European sounds to create its own. Instruments such as the accordion, goombay drum and handsaw are all included in rake 'n' scrape. 

This picture demonstrates a Rake 'n' Scrape group using a variety of instruments. to create one rhythm. 


Picture taken from: https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.b901162c80d

The below video demonstrates or further explains the origin of rake and scrape and give a more in detail explanation of my description. 



Video taken from: https://www.youtube.com/

Another example of Creolization in English Music is Reggae. According to the book, style such as the skank rhythm, slow tempo and use of electric bass is used to harmonize Reggae. Reggae is seen in many Jamaican artists.

The below picture shows Chezidek, a musical artist that exhibits the Reggae style of music. 


Picture taken from: https://www.abnewswire.com/

The below video demonstrates the artist Chezidek using the patois language, a Jamaican Creole language. The beat of the song a mellow one, one that persons can sway along to. the song is a favorite of mines actually. very deep meaning to it and pleasing to the ear.



Video taken from: https://www.youtube.com/

Another example exhibited in the textbook was Calypso music which originated in Trinidad and Tobago. Calypso is a mix of French, Caribbean European and African music. Calypso is a fast-steady genre of music.

Here is a picture of Slinger Francisco, a Trinidadian Calypso singer, commonly known as Mighty Sparrow.


Picture taken from: https://th.bing.com/th/id/

This video is Mr. Mighty Sparrow live in concert to witness his rawness in musical taste. This helps you to witness the many instruments used in this genre of music.



Video taken from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

References: 

Gangelhoff, C., & LeGrand, C. (2019, December 31). Tour de Force: A Musical Journey of The Caribbean. Sound Caribbean.

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