By observing the Yoruba culture there is a realisation that some literary aphoristic expressions have gained longevity due to its influence by drummers. Aphorisms are a concise, witty form of oral expression, often a memorable phrase that can represent a general truth, or a thought-provoking observation used to communicate ideas and preserve traditions. There are very few unified theories of aphorism out there, but for this piece, let’s say aphorisms can be in the form of Maxims; a general truth or fundamental principle; Proverbs: a short statement that offers advice and instructions, or an Epigram: a concise statement expressing an idea in a clever and amusing way, which adds humour or satire.
Now, the Yoruba native drums such as the talking drum (ilu gangan) and sakara are one of Africa’s most iconic and culturally significant instruments used predominantly by Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria. Speaking with Mr. Kunle Ayanlowo, the erstwhile lead talking drummer for Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) reaffirms, that the talking drum is not only a musical instrument, but a tool used for communication.
By playing the talking drum, many veteran talking drummers, especially persons from the lineage of traditional drummers Ayan are able to excellently mimic the tonal Yoruba language to sound like human humming thereby adapting well established Yoruba proverbs or maxims into percussion phrases, hence ‘talking drum’. This traditional musical art has allowed proverbs and oth.