African Musicians of Distinction: The Royal Drummers of Burundi
The Royal Drummers of Burundi have earned their high standing in the world and are deservedly recognised as the finest African musicians of distinction. And a celebrated part of the country’s heritage and identity.
The outstanding musical talent emanating from the continent is already a major cultural export, garnering attention the world over. But these fascinating African musicians, the grandly titled Royal Drummers of Burundi, have influenced a generation of Western artists – from The Clash to Joni Mitchell – and have three studio albums to their name. And their performance at the inaugural WOMAD festival in 1982 helped popularise African music (not to mention African drums) in the UK.
Wherever they perform, their raw energy remains the same…
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A collective shout from drummers behind the stage. A booming voice bursting into song. The sound of intense percussion.
And it begins.
These brilliant African musicians, these extraordinary drummers, emerge in procession, wooden drums atop their heads. With every other beat, there is a kick of their legs – some reaching as high as their shoulders.
Splaying out, they form a crescent, leaving one drum – the inkiranya – in the centre. Once in position, they continue apace, striking the skin of the drum and thrashing the sides.
A frenzied atmosphere ensues – created by both sound and movement. One by one, with a warrior-like essence, they come forward and jump, spin – even backflip. Giant smiles were visible to all.
The song ebbs and flows throughout the performance. A climax approaches. The African drums are lifted high once more and, upon receiving their applause, the troupe exits the stage.
At last, the audience breathes out.
Since the 1960s audiences across the globe have borne witness to this hypnotic ceremony. Yet these African musicians are an integral feature in a centuries-old tradition in Burundi.
Although its exact origins remain a mystery, we do know that it was once solely reserved for ceremonial use. It then grew to mark births, funerals and coronations of kings.
Due to the meaning imbued in the drums, it also spoke of the cycle of the seasons – and the all-important harvest. For in Burundi both karyenka (drums) and mwami (kings) represent fertility and regeneration – important concepts in a largely agricultural society.
Today the performance of the drummers is less ritualistic. And the karyenka has since been removed from the national flag. But much of the customs involved with the ceremony remain.
The drums are made from a tree that only grows in Burundi. And the skills required to play them handed down from father to son. Thus the planting of seeds still holds great significance.
Another important aspect, that audiences worldwide might fail to appreciate altogether, is the drummer’s rhythms. For each still signifies an important concept to the Rundi (people of Burundi) – be it a sacred animal or the protection of a particular crop.
Some speak of the relationship between the drummer and his instrument. Others relate to specific drummers – perhaps the wisest, the oldest or the most prestigious. And others still speak of notions pertaining to future prosperity, both that of individuals and of their nation.
And so, despite their newfound fame, these incredible African musicians, The Royal Drummers of Burundi, remain an important representation of this tiny African nation’s culture, heritage and creativity.
Have you been lucky enough to see them perform? Would you like to? Let us know in the comments below.
