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Showing posts with label Ghana music and dance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ghana music and dance. Show all posts

Thursday, June 25, 2026

Five Video Examples Of Ghana's Gospel Jama Music Ensemble "Serious Morale" - Part IV


 
The Best Amazing Morale Performance by Serious Morale at SG Mall (Uplifting Souls through Jama)

SERIOUS MORALE, Premiered Jan 11, 2025

"Last year, We had the privilege of performing at Semanhyia Golden Mall. The primary objective of this event was to uplift the spirits of those in attendance. We would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the management of Semenhyia Golden Mall for providing us with the opportunity to perform on their premises."

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Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part IV of a four part pancocojams series on Ghanaian (West African) "jamas" (also known as "Morale") .

"Jama" (morale") are motivational songs and chants that are performed prior to, during, and after sports events and/or on other occasions such as informal gatherings and competitions between university resident hall students, as well as festival and other performances by professional music groups or by community groups.

This post presents information about the musical ensemble Serious Morale and showcases videos of five performances by that ensemble.

Click the link below each YouTube video to read comments in its discussion thread.

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Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2026/06/information-about-ghana-west-africas.html for Part I of this pancocojams series. That post presents information about the history of jama (morale) and presents some descriptions about these musical events.

This post is a complete reprint of my October 24, 2015 pancocojams post entitled "Ghanaian Jama (Gyama) - Definitions, Examples, & Comments" 

The comments that I wrote in that 2015 post's discussion thread are reprinted in this post.

The 2015 post is still available in this blog and additional comments to that post's discussion thread are still welcome.

In addition to the 2015 content, this 2026 post also includes two AI Overviews on this subject that are the result of my June 23, 2026 queries. 

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Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2026/06/five-video-examples-of-ghanas-black.html for Part II of this pancocojams series.  That post showcases five YouTube videos of jama (morale) performed by Black Star, Ghana's professional football (soccer) team or their supporters.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2026/06/examples-of-ghanaian-jama-morale-from.html for Part III of this pancocojams series.That post showcases five YouTube video examples of jama (morale) performed by university students. These videos are presented in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only. 

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The content of this post is presented for historical, cultural, and recreational purposes. 

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to Serious Morale for their music and their ministry.  Thanks also to Mark Agodoa for his writing that is re-printed in part in this pancocojams post.
.

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INFORMATION ABOUT THE MUSIC ENSEMBLE "SERIOUS MORALE"
From https://www.gbcghanaonline.com/entertainment/serious-morale-redefining-the-art-of-jama/2025/ 
“Serious Morale”; redefining the art of ‘Jama’
By Mark Agodoa, March 25, 2025

"The journey of Serious Morale has been punctuated by remarkable performances that have earned them a special place in the hearts of Ghanaians. Their first major breakthrough came at a wedding in Accra, organized by an influential figure on X (formerly Twitter) named S.K. However, it was their performance at the Colour Calabash Festival in Spintex (2024) that truly solidified their place in the public consciousness. When technical glitches plunged the event into darkness, the group’s unshakable focus turned a potential disaster into an awe-inspiring, unforgettable performance, leaving the audience with goosebumps.

Serious Morale traces its origins to the Mampong Technical College of Education (MTCE), where morale sessions had been practiced informally for over a century. Though not initially recorded, these gatherings created the foundation for what would eventually evolve into a cultural powerhouse. A breakthrough came when a video of one of their morale sessions, featuring Evans Okai (affectionately known as Nii Okai) wearing a white helmet, went viral. This pivotal moment marked the birth of the Serious Morale team and injected a renewed sense of purpose into their performances, galvanizing their growing fanbase.

 The name Serious Morale emerged organically. Initially, the group was nameless, but the leader would frequently shout “serious” when the energy levels of the performers dipped, and this would reignite their passion and re-energize their spirits. This call to action led to the adoption of the now-iconic name, “Serious Morale”. Though it started as an all-male ensemble owing to its roots from a male institution, the group plans to diversify by welcoming female members, a move that promises to be a thrilling new chapter in the group’s evolving narrative.

Serious Morale is a leadership dynamic that balances passion and discipline. Leading the charge is Nii Okai, whose charisma and deep love for music inspire the group. Alongside him is Boakye Joshua (known as Boakye Sensible), whose practical wisdom serves as the anchor for the team.

Membership is made up of the morale leader, the timer, drummer, malacash player, singers and backers and they all play an integral part in shaping the ensemble’s distinct sound.

 The group also benefits from the guidance of Patron Mr. Nat (Natty Bongo) and High Priest Abeiku Markin (Kweku), esteemed professors at MTCE. Kweku’s role as the group’s High Priest is not linked to traditional rituals because the only deity the group ascribes to is the Almighty God."...

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 -Trending Jama Gospel Songs to Energize Your Day From GHANA πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­ Best Morale Group

SERIOUS MORALE, Premiered Jun 24, 2024  Gospel Jama Booster 🎧πŸ’₯

THIS VIDEO WAS DONE TO BOOST THE MORALE OF OTHERS AND MOST IMPORTANTLY TO PUT SMILE ON THE FACES OF THOSE THAT ARE DOWN HEARTED..❤️‍🩹


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JehcVZrMav8

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #3-Feel the energy of Ghana Gospel Jama that uplifted the Morale of Everyone at kumasi Jubilee Park



SERIOUS MORALE, Premiered Jul 11, 2024  #worshipsongs #gospelmusic #praise

This video shows our live performance at the Ashanti Regional Youth Conference @Kumasi Jubilee Park

It was an honor and a great experience to be Invited. WATCH THE FULL VIDEO AND HAVE A FEELING OF BEING SOAKED IN THE SPIRITπŸ”₯

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 -The Best Morale Performance by Serious Morale at SG Mall(Uplifting Spirits and Souls through Jama)



SERIOUS MORALE, Premiered Jan 11, 2025

"Last year, We had the privilege of performing at Semanhyia Golden Mall. The primary objective of this event was to uplift the spirits of those in attendance. We would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the management of Semenhyia Golden Mall for providing us with the opportunity to perform on their premises.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odnVbbB3fnQ&t=169s

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 -Phase 2: Pure Gospel Jama to Elevate Your Morale! Smooth & Uplifting Melodies



SERIOUS MORALE. Premiered May 7, 2025  Gospel Jama Booster 🎧πŸ’₯

~Phase 2, this is the Final part  of our gospel Jama Morale that took place at Harvest International Ministry ~ Accra.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWKSBrXtHpw

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This concludes this four part pancocojams series on Ghanaian jama (morale).

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Five Video Examples Of Ghana's Black Star Football (Soccer) Team Or Their Supporters Singing Jama (Morale) -Part II

Black Stars sing ahead of Guinea clash

Ghanasoccernet, Oct 15, 2014

Black Stars sing in Tamale a day before their clash against Guinea in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6cddxRea7E&list=PLjxvVZ83fB07XLdils3zaHq0cHQznCswG

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Edited by Azizi Powell 

This is Part II of a four part pancocojams series on Ghanaian (West African) "jama" (also known as "morale") .

"Jama" are motivational songs and chants that are sung 
prior to, during, and after sports events and/or on during community events and other occasions such as competitions between university resident halls, 
performances by professional groups, and performances by non-professional community groups.

This post showcases five YouTube videos of jama (morale) performed by Black Star, Ghana's professional football (soccer) team or their supporters. 

Click the links below each of these videos to read their discussion thread. 

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Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2026/06/information-about-ghana-west-africas.html  for Part I of this pancocojams series. That post presents information about the history of jama (morale) and presents some descriptions about these musical events.

That 2026 post is a complete reprint of my October 24, 2015 pancocojams post entitled "Ghanaian Jama (Gyama) - Definitions, Examples, & Comments. That post also includes all of the comments from the discussion thread of that 2015 post [which consist of three comments that I wrote.]. In addition, that 2026 post includes two AI Overview write-ups from June 2026 about jama (morale).  

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2026/06/examples-of-ghanaian-jama-morale-from.html for Part III of this 2026. pancocojams series. That post showcases examples of jama (morale) performed by university students.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2026/06/five-examples-of-ghanas-gospel-jama.html for Part IV of this pancocojams series. That post showcases examples of jama (morale) performed by Ghana's Gospel jama group Serious Morale.

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The content of this post is presented for historical, cultural, and recreational purposes. 

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks also to all those who created this Ghanaian musical tradition and all those who participated in and still participate in this tradition.
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Additional YouTube videos of jama (morale) are showcased in the three part 2015 pancocojams series on that subject.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2015/10/video-examples-of-ghanaian-black-stars.html for one of those post. Each of these posts include links to the other posts in that series.
 

All of the posts in that 2015 series are still available in this blog and additional comments to that post's discussion thread are still welcome.

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - 
This Heart Fans Jama Will Melt Your Heart..Hearts Are Officially Ghana Premier League Champion ..


Television CK, Jul 11, 2021

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl_t2h87Giw

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - 
Chapter O Jama Session

VINCE GROVE GH, Oct 16, 2022 

ACCRA SPORTS STADIUM

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - 
ASAMOAH GYAN LED JAMA SESSION AFTER BLACK STARS LAST TRAINING AT THE ACCRA SPORTS STADIUM 

GFA - Ghana Football Association

Mar 20, 2025  #ghanafootballassociation #Ghana #Highlights

This is the official Ghana Football Association YouTube channel. Your source for exclusive content and updates of all teams associated with GFA. Watch highlights from our Black Stars and the Ghana Premier League, interviews with our players, training sessions and much more! Don’t forget to subscribe and watch our journey to victory in Qatar 2022 World Cup!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6ZY7atkFQs

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #5
- Black star players ambu.shed Asamoah Gyan 4 an energetic jama to face Panama,Prez Mahama called dem


SammyKay Media and Ga Headquarters, Jun 17, 2026

Asamoah Gyan is the ultimate icon of Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, serving as both their all-time top goalscorer and most capped player. Currently, he serves as the official Brand Ambassador for Ghana's National Teams and Colts Football, using his legendary status to rally nationwide unity and psych up the squad at their base in Toronto, Canada.Historical Legacy with the Black StarsAcross a legendary 16-year international career spanning from 2003 to 2019, "Baby Jet" established records that still stand today:Total Goals: 51 goals in 109 appearances.World Cup Record: 6 goals across three tournaments (2006, 2010, 2014), making him the highest African goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.Milestone: Scored Ghana's first-ever World Cup goal against the Czech Republic in 2006, just 68 seconds into the match.Captaincy: Appointed permanent captain in 2012, leading the generation that reached the historic quarter-finals in South Africa 2010.Current RoleHaving officially retired from active football in June 2023, Gyan remains deeply embedded with the national team setup:

AI-generated video summary:

SammyKay Media captures the Black Stars team sharing an energetic and spirited moment together. During this gathering, the President of Ghana connects with the players and technical staff via a video call to offer encouragement, express national support, and share words of inspiration ahead of their upcoming tournament match against Panama.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGXMCqdr_ZI

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This concludes Part II of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome. 

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

What The Ghana, West African Song "Kakalika" REALLY Means (videos, information, & comments)




DopeNation - Kakalika (Official Video)

DopeNation, Oct 31, 2025

Music video by DopeNation performing 'Kakalika' featuring amazing Dancers and Creatives from all over Ghana. Produced by DopeNation . Video directed by Film Chef. (C) 2025. DopeNation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkRLePQihiA
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Statistics as of June 23, 2026 as of 9:16 AM EST
Total # of views - 12,676,964 views Total # of comments - 2,029

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Edited by Azizi Powell

Latest revision- June 23, 2026

This pancocojams post showcases some YouTube videos of the hit Ghanaian West African song "Kakalika" and presents information, comments, and my editorial note about the meaning of that song's title and the dance that is associated with that song.

The content of this post is presented for historical, linguistic, socio-cultural, and entertainment purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to the Ghanaian music duo DopeNation for their music. Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and all those who are featured in these videos. Thanks also to the producers and publishers of these videos on YouTube.

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - DopeNation Kakalika Music Video is Epic || BREAKDOWN



Breakdown Nyame Headless, Nov 3, 2025  #kakalika #dopenation #HeadlessYouTuber

Dopenation have released the official video for Kakalika and the song is ogya nkoa. #dopenation #kakalika

 THIS IS A REACTION VIDEO BY HEADLESS YOUTUBER 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alT0CykFQeY

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 -
This Ghanaian Song Just Went Global πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­ Everyone Is Dancing to Kakalika Right Now!



Rab Daily Focus,   
Apr 29, 2026  RDF

This Ghanaian song Kakalika is making waves across the globe πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­πŸ”₯

The rhythm, the energy, the culture — everything about it hits different. From Ghana to London to Canada, Amsterdam to Paris to America, everyone is vibing to it.

Ghana continues to influence the world with its unique sound, and this is proof! 🌍

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X35XgJJhAVs


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SHOWCASE VIDEO #4- This is Why Kakalika Is Better Than Any Song In 2026 In The world



MADE IN AFRICA, May 12, 2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdxjQonVBDk

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INFORMATION ABOUT THE MEANING OF THE WORD "KALALIKA" IN GHANA

These online sources are given in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only.
  
Source #1:  AI Overview #1-What does the word Kakalika mean in Ghana, West Africa?
"In Ghana, "Kakalika" is a popular slang term that means cockroach. While often used colloquially across the country, it is actually a Ga language word adapted from the German word for cockroach, Kakerlake. The strict Twi word for cockroach is tΙ›fΙ›rΙ› (or ntΙ›frΙ›).

If you are exploring Ghanaian pop culture, you might also recognize the term from popular songs like DopeNation's "Kakalika" or Sister Deborah's "Kakalika Love", where it is used as a metaphor for hiding or sneaking around."
-snip-
Pancoocjams Editor's note:
Other online sources-including the AI Overview write-up that I quote immediately below-indicate that the word "kakalika" is from the Dutch language, not the German language. 

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Source #2: AI Overview #2 - 
Where did the dance Kakalika come from?
"The "Kakalika" dance originated in Ghana, evolving from traditional street dances like Azonto. The term "kakalika" translates to "cockroach" in the [Ga]* language, and the movement physically mimics the scurrying and twitching of the insect.

Origins and Evolution

The Inspiration: The dance was originally inspired by individuals mimicking the frantic, scuttling movements of a cockroach, making it a popular street and party dance in the early 2000s.

Historical Tracing: Archival footage shows the originator of the exact Kakalika dance performing the moves in 2012, which gained attention when former Ghanaian football star Asamoah Gyan shared it online.

Global Explosion: The dance was propelled onto the global stage by the popular Ghanaian musical duo DopeNation when they released their viral hit single "Kakalika".

Cultural Phenomenon: It has since become a major cultural staple, prominently featured by the Black Stars (Ghana's national football team) as an entrance and celebration dance. 
-snip-
*It's important to emphasize that the Akan language and the Ga language are two separate traditional languages in Ghana, West Africa.

That AI Overview write-up incorrectly indicates that the word "kakalika" is from the Akan language. I corrected that information and retained the rest of that AI write-up since it provides easy to understand summaries about that word.

Btw, DopeNation released their song "Kakalika" in October 2025. Given its (unofficial) association with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it's interesting to learn that the Kakalika dance originated in 2012l and gained attention when a Ghanaian football player shared that dance online.

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Source #3
From https://www.tiktok.com/@mr__bruks/video/7598927340231544086?lang=en "Kakalika Meaning", January 2026
[Unofficial Summary written by Azizi Powell

"Kakalika" is a Ghanaian dance song that was composed by 
The Ghanaian AfroBeat/AfroPop musical duo DopeNation. This record includes elements of the Zulu (South African) amapiano electronic music genre, and is therefore sometimes categorized as "Ghanapiano".

In this Tik Tok video 
@mr__bruks, a Ghanaian man, informs visitors to this video that "kakalika" is the Ga* word for "cockroach". used the blue slippers [Chalewote] as their symbol to represent their song "Kakalika" on the cover of their 2025 album. This is because in Ghana when people saw  cockroaches (kakalikas) in their house they quickly grabbed their flipflops (slippers/ Chalewotes) to kill them.]..

-snip-
Here's some information about Ga language from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%A3_language
"GΓ£ is a Kwa language, part of the Niger–Congo family. It is very closely related to Adangme, and together they form the GΓ£–Dangme branch. 

GΓ£ is the predominant language of the GΓ£ people, an ethnic group of Ghana

[...]

GΓ£ is spoken in south-eastern Ghana, in and around the capital Accra. It has relatively little dialectal variation. Although English is the official language of Ghana, GΓ£ is one of 16 languages in which the Bureau of Ghana Languages publishes material."...

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Here are some comments from that Tik Tok video's discussion thread (with numbers added for referencing purposes only)

missmoreall, January 2026
"Can you brake down why flip flops slippers are called “Charlie did u hear me” in Twi"
-snip-
From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twi-Fante_language
"Twi-Fante, commonly referred to by its speakers as either Twi ... or Fante ... and academically and institutionally known by the broader term Akan (pronounced /Ι™ΛˆkΓ¦n/[4]), is a widely spoken language of Ghana and the main native language of the Akan people.[5] Spoken over much of the southern half of Ghana, about 44% of Ghanaians are native speakers,[5][6] and about 80% of Ghana's population speak Akan as a first or second language.[5] The Bono dialect is also widely spoken in Ghana and across the border in Ivory Coast.[7]"...

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Reply
1of1 πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­, January 2026
"
It’s rather a Ga word “chale worte” meaning “yo let’s go”. I think it’s so because flip flops are much easier to wear as compared to a sneaker"

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Reply
ErMJhay, January 2026
"Eeeiiii… it’s a Ga word madam. What has slippers got to do with hearing. “Charley wote”- charley let’s go. Quick wear then zooom"

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Reply
GIRLCONFIDENCEπŸ’„πŸŽ€, January 2026
"
The flip flops (charle worte) is what we used to kill the cockroach (kakalika) cause it’s flexible but heavy enough to stomp on the cockroach πŸ™‚"

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Lems, January 2026
"Us GA’s are so unique πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚"

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Reply
King Tantamani, January 2026
"Not really. The word was borrowed from the Dutch word for cockroach, which is kakalak. The Gas called it kakalika and the Fantes also called it Kakrika. Nt3fr3 is used by the Twi speaking Akans, who didn't have much connection with the Dutch. Fantes borrowed lots of words from the Dutch. For instance, bread is called paano in Dutch, the same in Fante"

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Reply
JustMi.chelle, January 2026
"hihihi thanks for explaining it. In my language papiamento we say kakalaka"

**
Reply
Nana Besemah, January 2026
"fante's also call it kakalika"

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Reply
maryhagan283, January 2026
"really which country?"

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Reply
JustMi.chelle, January 2026
"The language we speak on the Caribbean Islands, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao 😊"

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Reply
Mr Bruks 🩸 [video creator], January 2026
"That’s very interesting cos sometimes we say Kaklalaka as well 😭"

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DOYEN, January 2026
"also German Karkerlake. there might be a connection there"

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pavelaj, January 2026
"its actually a corruption of the Dutch word for cocroach. dutch explorers settled in Ghana and the Ga’s borrowed a few words for them"

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GHANAPIANO_tvπŸͺ‡πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­, January 2026
"
Make dem know 🀣🀣"

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ZIGGY, February 2026
"The chalewate is the weapon for kakalika πŸ˜…"

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Floetic Feloni, February 2026
"We GA’s have just been sitting back laughing at them 🀣 this is why I say people need to learn Ga"

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Salone BeBe, February 2026
"The dance is making sense now🀣"

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*happiness 🌟, March 2026
"I am laughing the whole time cuz I’m like people are singing about cockroaches 🀣🀣🀣🀣"

**
the Africa Index, March 2026
"the chalewote is not any chalewote but "blue bird" chalewote"

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Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Sunday, March 19, 2023

Five YouTube Video Examples Of Singers' Hand Clapping & Other Hand Motions That Are Performed By Singers In The Ghanaian (Ewe) Music Group Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band


Edzordzinam Fafali Officials, May 13, 2021

I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music.πŸ‘Œ Let’s support our Ewe Culture Music and don’t hesitate to Call us for any Proggam or for any sponsorship Deal God bless y’all for the support.

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Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part II of a two part pancocojams series about Borborbor music and dance from Ghana, West Africa and from Togo, West Africa.

This post showcases a few videos of the Ghanaian (Ewe)  music group Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band with a focus on the hand clapping and other hand motions that are performed by that band's singers.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2023/03/article-excerpts-about-ghanas-togos-ewe.html for Part I of this two part pancocojams series. That post showcases a YouTube video of 
Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band and provides some information about Borborbor music.

The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to the founders, leaders, and other members of Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band and thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.

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PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
I am an African American self-described "community folklorist who knows nothing about African culture besides what I've read and watched online. I first learned about Borborbor music and dance in 2012 as a result of "happening" upon a video while "surfing" YouTube for traditional African music and dance. [The link for the pancocojams post that was the result of my finding out about Borborbor is given above.]

Most of the articles and comments that I've read about Borborbor dancing focus on its drumming style and/or it allegedly being the source for or resembling contemporary "twerking" dancing.

I haven't found any online content about how Borborbor singers' alternate between clapping their own hands and performing other synchronized hand motions.

I'm not a musician but it appears to me that the Borborbor singers in the videos that I've watched which show those singers clap their hands on the first and second beats and then (usually) do some other synchronized hand motions on the third and fourth beat. 

 *By "individual" I mean that the singers are clapping their own hands and not the hands of anyone else.

**By "synchronized" I mean that it usually appears that all or many of the singers at a particular time in a video  are doing the same alternate hand motions after they clap their hands. I don't know what-if anything- those motions mean in Ewe culture. Usually the singers stand in place without moving while doing these hand claps and other hand motions. However, sometimes they move from side to side and/or appear to perform some dance moves without leaving their spot.

These videos are given in no particular order. Numbers are added for referencing purposes only.

DISCLAIMER

This pancocojams post doesn't provide examples of all the hand motions that I've seen in 
 Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band. Idon't know if singers in other Borborbor bands do the same or some different hand motions.

This post also doesn't 
YouTube videos of this these post doesn't include any time stamps or descriptions of the singers' hand clapping or other hand motions simply because I don't believe I could adequately describe those motions. Please feel free to add your descriptions about these Borborbor singers' hand clapping signatures and these hand motions. 

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #2: DzidzΙ”kpΙ”kpΙ” nye dadanya Ε‹utΙ” le mΓ­aΖ’e BΙ”bΙ”bΙ” dekΙ”nuwo Ζ’e domenyinu bliboa me.❤️


Edzordzinam Fafali Officials, Dec 20, 2022

Best traditional culture group Edzordzinam fafali borborbor band πŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺ 0277141434



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SHOWCASE #3 - Check this massive borborbor performance ❤️❤️dont forget to share abd subscribe to our channel ❤️❤️

Edzordzinam Fafali Officials, Sep 24, 2022

Proud Voltarian❤️❤️❤️ massive performance borborbor dance ❤️❤️from Edzordzinam fafali borborbor Band ( Abeka lapaz ). 0277141434

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SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - Happiness is a very proud word of our whole Borborbor cultural heritage.❤️ Proud9❤️EdzordzinamFafali


Edzordzinam Fafali Officials, Sep 11, 2021

Welcome to Official Page if Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band(Abeka Lapaz)  home Of Our rich and Beautiful Borborbor Culture ❤️ 


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SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - BORBORBOR πŸ’‘Culture grow on the vine of tradition.( EDZORDZINAM FAFALI BORBORBOR BAND Abeka Lapaz)

Edzordzinam Fafali Officials, views  Sep 16, 2021

Welcome to Official Page if Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band(Abeka Lapaz)  home Of Our rich and Beautiful Borborbor Culture ❤️

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This concludes Part II of this two part pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome. 


Article Excerpts About Ghana's & Togo's (Ewe) Borborbor Music & Dance


GhanaExpo, Aug 9, 2017

EDZORDZINAM FAFALI BORBORBOR BAND(Abeka Lapaz )

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Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part I of a two part pancocojams series about Borborbor music and dance from Ghana, West Africa and from Togo, West Africa. This dance is also called "Bobobo Akpesse", "Bobobo", and "Akpessee".

This post showcases a YouTube video of Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band and provides some information about Borborbor music.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2023/03/five-youtube-video-examples-of-singers.html for Part II of this two part pancocojams series. That post showcases a few videos of the Ghanaian (Ewe)  music group Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band with a focus on how Borborbor singers alternate individual hand clapping with other synchronized hand motions.

The content of this post is presented for folkloric, cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to the founders, leaders, and other members of Edzordzinam Fafali Borborbor Band and thanks to all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks also to the publisher of this video on YouTube.
-snip-
Click 
http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/04/borborbor-performances-togo-ghana for a 2012 pancocojams post entitled "Borborbor Performances – Ghana and Togo, West Africa"

****
ARTICLE EXCERPTS/COMPLETE REPRINT

These excerpts and one complete reprint are given in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only. However, based on current YouTube videos, some of these excerpts refer to traditional Borborbor music and dance instead of describing how that music and dance are performed in the 2000s. 

Excerpt #1
From https://www.localguidesconnect.com/t5/General-Discussion/Borborbor-dance-in-Ghana/td-p/1419603#:~:text=Borborbor%20is%20an%20African%20tribal,the%20use%20of%20%E2%80%9Cdrums%E2%80%9D.
"Borborbor dance in Ghana

*Borborbor dance*

Borborbor is an African tribal dance of the “Ewedome” community in Ghana, Africa. This “tribal” dance is said to have originated from the mid Volta region in Ghana. This dance is generally performed during “festive” occasions. In addition, this dance style essentially consists of music that involves the use of “drums”. Furthermore, the music used for this dance is also accompanied by “singing”. In addition, this form of dance is mainly performed in a group from dawn right until dusk.

 a. *History/origin of the Borborbor:

It is believed that the root of this dance form has been embedded within the culture of a village called Wusuta located around the Volta Lake in Ghana during the late 1940’s. It was however an ex-police officer belonging to a village called Kpando called Francis Nuatro who first developed a musical genre called “Borborbor”. He apparently fused styles of music such as the Konkoma to produce this (Borborbor) genre of music. Furthermore, it was then to the rhythms of this music that this dance form was eventually produced, and was quite aptly named “Borborbor”.

b. *Costumes used in the Borborbor:*

This dance form is performed mainly by females and the costume worn includes a colourful long dress and two white handkerchiefs.

c. *Instruments involved in the Borborbor:*

“Traditional instruments” belonging to the Ewe community is basically used in this dance style. They include a pair of castanets, container rattles, a small drum called “vuvi”, a supporting drum called “asivu”, and a master drum called “vuga”.

d. *Training availability and dance technique involved in the Borborbor:face_blowing_a_kiss:

In terms of the technique, this dance involves the performers forming a circle, and swaying to the rhythmic beats of the music produced by the drums played by the musicians. In addition, while dancing the performers are supposed to twirl two handkerchiefs in the air. As for training centres/schools there are none available around the globe since this is essentially an “African tribal dance” that is performed exclusively by a tribe in Ghana known as “Ewedome”.

 ****
Excerpt #2
From 
https://ghanagoods.co.uk/ewe-dances/#:~:text=Also%20known%20as%20Agbeyeye%20or,Ewes%20of%20Ghana%20and%20Togo. Ewe Dances: Borborbor Dance by Disphoria, October 12, 2015
"The joy on achieving Independence in Ghana was expressed in various ways by the entire populace of the country. This “new life” envisaged, resulted in the emergence of several new musical types. These new creations relating to the “freedom” to be enjoyed through the said independence have roots in the popular Ghanaian Highlife. Boborbor is one of such musical creations of the period 1947 – 1957. Also known as Agbeyeye or Akpese; Boborbor originated from Kpando in the Volta Region of Ghana through the ingenuity of the late Francis Cudjoe Nuatro popularly called F.C. Boboobo is presently the most popular social music and dance of the central and northern Ewes of Ghana and Togo. It is generally performed at funerals and other social occasions. Boborbor music and dance ceremony is syncretic in character and it is performed principally in a circular formation."

****
Excerpt #3
..."Bobobo, the second dance-drumming piece of the night, is a type of recreational dance-drumming of the Ewe people in Southeastern Ghana. It originated in Kpando, located in the Northern Volta Region, prior to Ghanaian independence in the late 1950s. Influences from West African highlife, for example the offbeat bell timeline, and Western hymn singing are evident. Most of the song lyrics in Bobobo are set in the Ewe language.

While many Ewe genres include mixed-gender dancing, the typical gender roles of this genre include female dancers, and male drummers. Drumming is typically performed only by men in Ghana. A trumpet or bugle is commonly used to accompany the singing and improvise around the melodies of the songs. The instrumentation includes the toke (boat-shaped single bell), kretsiwa (iron finger bell), akaye (gourd shaker), vuvi (small stick drum), asivui (hand drum), dondo (double-sided hourglass-shaped talking drum), vuga (master drum)."

****

Complete reprint #4 
From 
https://tradancestudio.wordpress.com/2020/04/27/the-borborbor-dance-by-the-ewe-people/ By Edem Teigo
"B
orborbor dance historically is an African recreational dance by the people of Ewe ethic group in Ghana and started by the people of Ewedome before later spread to Kpando, Hohoe, Ho and southern part of Volta Region and other regions of Ghana. The Borborbor genre is also called “akpesee” and spread to all Ewe speaking areas including Togo and Benin.

The root of the dance has been embedded within the culture of a village called Wusuta, located around the Volta Lake of Ghana during the 1940’s. It was however an old ex_police officer from Kpando village by name Francis Nuatro who first started a musical genre called “Borborbor “. He is the grandfather of Borborbor – genius of the genre if there is any recognition of Borborbor today. He fused the original music form, Konkoma with other forms of music genres to the modern Borborbor sound. The genre gained ground and was recognized as one of the popular dance due to the hard work of Francis Nuatro as many songs of Borborbor were composed by him. During a visit to Kpando by Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah, it was reported that the rhythms of the borborbor music used at the welcoming ceremony won his heart as he joined the dancing led by Nuatro group.

Traditional instruments found at the Ewe community are basically used for this dance style. They include a pair of castanets, a container rattles, a small drum called “vuvi” a supporting drum called “asivu” and a master drum called “Vuga” but many bands now use between two and four drums. The castanets go” kor kor kor, kor kor kor, in triple beat in almost all borborbor music. The smaller drums basically just keep the rhythm going. It is the bass drum that provides the distinctive borborbor sound. That is why the master drummer must be good. In a typical borborbor number, the lead singer may start alone or with the accompaniment of the castanets. The drums and the chorus follow after some singing. The interchange between lead singer and chorus go on for some time through different songs. Then the bugler blows his first two notes, usually drawing out the second one as long as possible (pa paaaaaa) whereupon the dancing girls will bend down (it is not called borborbor for nothing) adding some more styles to their movements. The master drummer will raise his act sometimes following the melody of the horn, at other times inter-lacing rhythmically with it. The bugler ends his long solo on a note that cues the lead singer to take up the singing again at the same time as the dancing girls will rise up, their white handkerchiefs fluttering in the air in a calculated dance movement.

The Borborbor dance has now adaptation of rhymes and high life as songs as traditional Borborbor songs has been adulterated thereby affecting the significant of that rhythmic dance form.The genre is performance at funeral, festival, naming ceremony and ceremony to welcome special guests."

****
Excerpt #5
From http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=201101
"A traditional Borborbor group consists of a pair of castanets, container rattles, small drums (vuvi), supporting drum (asivu), and a master drum (vuga) but many bands now use between two and four drums. The castanets go ”kor kor kor, kor kor kor”, in triple beat in almost all borborbor music. The smaller drums basically just keep the rhythm going. It is the bass drum that provides the distinctive borborbor sound. That is why the master drummer must be good. In a typical borborbor number, the lead singer may start alone or with the accompaniment of the castanets. The drums and the chorus follow after some singing. The interchange between lead singer and chorus go on for some time through different songs. Then the bugler blows his first two notes, usually drawing out the second one as long as possible (pa paaaaaa) whereupon the dancing girls will bend down (it is not called borborbor for nothing) adding some more styles to their movements. The master drummer will raise his act sometimes following the melody of the horn, at other times inter-lacing rhythmically with it. The bugler ends his long solo on a note that cues the lead singer to take up the singing again at the same time as the dancing girls will rise up, their white handkerchiefs fluttering in the air. I have seen a group use black and red handkerchiefs. That is ugly. It is an abomination that will be sternly frowned upon by the borborbor aficionados. Anything other than white handkerchiefs detracts from the purity of the dance."...
-snip-
Based on the YouTube videos that I have watched, "white" isn't the only color cloth that is twirled by 
Borborbor dancers in the 2000s. 

****
Excerpt #6
From http://www.bridgingdevelopment.org/culturepages/musicpages/borborbor.htm:
"Borborbor is the most popular style of recreational music in the Volta Region [of Ghana]. It links traditional drumming rhythms with proverbial lyrics that frequently include Christian themes. It is the ultimate blend of old and new. Borborbor is often played at celebrations and funerals. Borborbor drummers weave moderate beats while women dancers and singers revolve around them. Women singers carry two white handkerchiefs that they twirl in the air at the end of a drumming period. A bugle may be used to add spice to the music. There is usually one song leader who will sing the first line of a song and lead the people from one song to the next by combining the meanings of different songs in unique ways to evoke the spirit of the particular occasion. Everyone in the community may participate in these performances which usually begin at dusk and can continue well into the night and even until dawn. Borborbor dance is very suggestive and many boy-girl liaisons develop during these events."

****
Excerpt #7
From https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hue28PiuCow "BORBORBOR (AKPESSE) A TRADITIONAL EWE DANCE FROM GHANA & TOGO", published by Ndudu by Fafa, Jun 25, 2018  

"Borborbor is a traditional Ghanaian and Togolese dance. The drummers  are surrounded by women who sing and dance to the rhythm of the music.

The songs are proverbial in lyrics with Christian themes, which tend to inspire, motivate and uplift one's spirit.

The Nutifafa Borborbor Culture Group of Kpando, performed at my brothers funeral hence the ladies had red instead of white handkerchiefs."...

****

This concludes Part II of this two part pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

 


 

Friday, March 11, 2022

Ghana's Independence March 6, 1957 (historical film footage, article excerpts in English & In Pidgin English, & selected comments)


gemzyangel, Mar 10, 2013

...Music in this video

Song: Ghana Freedom

Artist: E.T Mensah & His Tempos Band

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post provides information about Ghana, West Africa's independence Day March 6, 1957.

This post also presents an excerpt in standard English article and an excerpt in Ghanaian Pidgin English about Ghana's Independence Day.

In addition, this post also showcases a YouTube video copy of a historical film footage about Ghana's Independence Day and presents selected comments from the discussion thread from that YouTube video.

The content of this post is presented for historical, cultural, and educational purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who fought for Ghanaian indepence. Thanks to all those who are featured in this video and all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks also to the publisher of this video on YouTube. 
-snip-
Click __ for a pancocojams post about the song "Ghana Freedom" by E.T. Mensah.

Click the tags below for more pancocojams posts about Ghana.

****
ARTICLE EXCERPTS ABOUT GHANA'S INDEPENDENCE

Excerpt #1
From https://nationaltoday.com/ghana-independence-day/#:~:text=Ghana%20Independence%20Day%20is%20celebrated,be%20observed%20as%20a%20holiday.

Ghana Independence Day is celebrated every year on March 6. It is a public holiday for the citizens of Ghana and also widely celebrated among Ghanaians living abroad. If March 6 falls on a weekend, the following Monday will also be observed as a holiday. Ghana Independence Day is also known as Ghana National Day. The celebrations commemorate Ghana’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1957. The day is celebrated in public office with carnivals, parades, and other events. Private citizens celebrate the day with music and food, and some may even hoist the national flag at home.

[…]

While the Portuguese had been the first to establish a settlement in the region, the allure of the local riches led to a struggle for control between many European nations. In 1874, Britain took control over parts of the country, and Ghana was renamed the British Gold Coast.

After being weakened by the efforts of World War II, Britain decided to reduce its colonies and the power they held around the world, including those in Africa. This desire was bolstered by a rising call for independence in the Gold Coast. In 1947, the United Gold Coast Convention (U.G.C.C.), a local political party founded by J. B. Danquah, called for “self-government within the shortest possible time” following the Gold Coast legislative elections.

In 1951, former Secretary-General of the U.G.C.C. and founder of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah won a majority in the Gold Coast legislative election. He was appointed the leader of the Gold Coast government in 1952, and the Gold Coast region declared its independence from the United Kingdom on March 6, 1957. Following their independence, the new country was established as the Nation of Ghana. Nkrumah went on to become the first Prime Minister of Ghana, and Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to achieve independence from colonial powers.

[...]
 
GHANA INDEPENDENCE DAY FAQS

How did Ghana get its name?

The name was drawn from an ancient African empire that was once famous for its significant power, land, and wealth. Ghana means ‘strong warrior’ or ‘war chief,’ which was the title given to the kings of this ancient kingdom located in some parts of modern-day Mauritania, Senegal, and Mali. The country was given this name on the eve of its independence in 1957."...

 ****
Excerpt #3
From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwame_Nkrumah
"
 Kwame Nkrumah PC (21 September 1909[1][a] – 27 April 1972) was a Ghanaian politician, political theorist, and revolutionary. He was the first Prime Minister and President of Ghana, having led the Gold Coast to independence from Britain in 1957.[2] An influential advocate of Pan-Africanism, Nkrumah was a founding member of the Organization of African Unity and winner of the Lenin Peace Prize from the Soviet Union in 1962.[3]

[...]

Nkrumah was hailed as the Osagyefo – which means "redeemer" in the Akan language."...
-snip-
From https://www.lexico.com/definition/osagyefo "Osagyefo: The title was bestowed on Nkrumah on becoming president."
-snip-
The honorary title "Osagyefo" that has been given to other esteemed Ghanaians. [See Google search] 

****
Excerpt #4
From https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/world-60630155#:~:text=Ghana%20dey%20mark%20dia%2065,di%20United%20Kingdom%20for%201957. Ghana Independence Day 2022: 65th Independence day of Ghana as e happun March 6

6 March 2022
"Ghana dey mark dia 65 years independence anniversary on Sunday 6th March, 2022.

Di celebration na to remember Ghana independence from di United Kingdom for 1957.

Di West African kontri don declare public holiday on Monday.

"Working Together, Bouncing Back Together" be di theme of Ghana 65th Independence Anniversary.

President Nana Akufo-Addo plus big govment ogas and diplomats bin gada for Cape Coast Stadium to celebrate.

Dem use carnivals, parades, and oda events mark dia anniversary.

[…]

Different school pikins do match-past for Cape Coast Stadium on Sunday.


[…]

Di day also witness cultural display

[…]

President Akufo-Addo advise all Ghanaians not to run down di kontri at any given opportunity dem get for dia own interest."

****
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM THE DISCUSSION THREAD FOR THIS EMBEDDED YOUTUBE VIDEO
From https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOEdJDdz690

These comments are given in chronological order, except for replies. Numbers are added for referencing purposes only. 

DISCLAIMER: These comments are the opinions of those who wrote them and not necessarily, the opinions of the editor of this pancocojams blog.

1. Peter Mfinanga, 2016
"great moment in African history..."

**
2. Greg Parbey, 2016
"Kwame Nkrumah was a very good president. But why would  the British come and rule over Ghana?"

**
Reply 
3. Mattkrewe, 2017
"imperialism"

**
Reply
4. Bethany Davidson, 2020
"Greg Parbey to steal the many resources here - gold, bauxite, diamonds, oil, and, for a time, human beings. Money and power are usually at the root of this kind of evil.

**
5. Modinbi Kailey, 2016
"Toils of the brave and the sweat of their labor have so far being in vain. my heart still bleeds for Ghana because we still haven't proven to be capable of managing our own affairs πŸ˜”

 **
Reply
6. Obiri Agyirifo, 2021
"
It's sad πŸ˜”"

**
7. Ama Danquah, 2016
"
THE NARATOR SAYS BLACK AFRICA, WHAT DOES SHE MEAN BY THAT?"

**
Reply
8. Herman Kailey, 2016
"+Ama Danquah yeah, Ghana was the first African state to become independent that was entirely run by the African natives. There were other independent states at the time but they were under European control. So when they say Black Africa, they are referring to the regions other than the ones run by Europeans."

**
9. L-GUN, 2017
"This man saw a world where Africans banded as one Nation or more or less democratic black empire. While noble i'm not sure how practical this is"

**
Reply
10. william Aggrey-Orleans, 2018
"The world powers sensing the threat such an idea will be to their collective interests did everything to thwart it.."

**
Reply
11. MubarakStayBless Mohammed, 2018
"A huge loss to Afrika. Dr KWAME NKRUMAH"

**
12. mega at oh, 2019
"it's funny how the british lied at the beginning that "it was a peaceful handover""

**
13. Kodwo Ampiah-Bonney, 2019
"Nkrumah would be crying if he saw Africa now"

**
Reply
14. Faisal Mohammed, 2019
"You're right my friend"

**
Reply
15. Kodwo Ampiah-Bonney, 2020
"Danielle Donkor tears of sadness. Progress is being done as we speak but many internal and external setbacks are preventing Africa from moving up"

 **
Reply
16. NkrumahTure, 2021
"I concur.  But he left us a blue print for the restoration of the Afrikan continent in his book, Handbook of RevolΓΊtionary Warfare. If you haven't studied it I highly recommend that you do. In that book  are the solutions to Afrika's political, and economic problems. Also, it must be followed up with Nkrumah's book Consciencism, philosophy and ideology for de-colonization. The philosophical and ideological basis for continental unification rests in that book.

If we're serious we will take our direction from Nkrumah through those writings and some others too, like Africa Must Unite. So, Osageyfo does speak to us through his words, all we have to is follow them to the letter and we will win."

**
17. TrustNoOne, 2017
"
Ghana πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­ our beloved country 🌍

Is free forever πŸ’«✨πŸ”₯

So proud to be a Ghanaian πŸ™‹πŸΎ‍♀️✌πŸ½πŸ™ŒπŸΎ

God bless our (Home Land Ghana πŸ‡¬πŸ‡­ )"

**
18. Leticia Agyemang, 2018
"I'm proud to be a Ghanaian. Ghana, we will make you proud. The future is still bright😍"

**
19. YaGurl RappingQueen, 2018
"God bless our homeland Ghana

And make our nation great and strong

Bold to defend forever

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!!"

**
20. Pi. Ey. Be., 2019
"FREEDOM SHOUDNT BE A GIFT IT IS A RIGHT, AND IF IT IS NOT BEEN GIVING FIGHT FOR IT. GHANA IS FREEDOM❤✊🏾"

**
21. Laurencia Adomaa, 2020
"❤️❤️"

****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Five YouTube Videos Of Ghana's (Akan) Kete Dances



JB art alliance, Sept. 11, 2017

A royal dance among the Akan people of Ghana. ****

Edited by Azizi Powell

Latest revision: March 12, 2022

This is Part III of a three part pancocojams series on Ghana's (Akan) Adowa dances and Kete dances.

This pancocojams post showcase five videos of the Ghanaian (Akan) Kete dances. 

A few selected comments from discussion threads for two of these video are also included in this post.

Click 
https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2022/03/excerpt-of-2020-journal-article-about.html for Part I of this pancocojams series. That post provides an excerpt from a 2020 journal article by Adu David Tuffour entitled "The Effests Of Guestures Used In Adowa And Kete Performances With Particular Reference To Akans In Ghana".

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2022/03/five-videos-of-ghanaian-akan-adowa.html  for Part II of this pancocojams series. Part II showcases five YouTube videos of Ghana's  (Akan) Adowa dances.

In addition to the music and dances, I'm interested in the clothing that is worn by the musicians, the dancers, and their audiences. 

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2022/03/seven-videos-of-young-girls-and-young.html for Part IV of this pancocojams series. Part IV showcases seven videos of young girls and young boys performing Ghana's Adowa Dances and Kete Dances.

The content of this post is presented for cultural and educational purposes. 

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube. 

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #2: Kete Dance 

Nyansapo Cultural Troupe Nkawie, July 7, 2019
-snip-
Here are a few selected comments from this video's discussion thread, with numbers added for referencing purposes only:

1. Harriet Affai, 2019
"What’s the difference between adowa and kete???"

**
Reply
2. Aba Assiaw-Dufu, 2019
"Harriet Affai Kete is a whole lot of running and leaping. It’s seems more aggressive than Adowa, in my opinion."

**
Reply
3. Snaky Dragon, 2019
"Adowa is more somber and celebration-of-life related, kete is royal music, much more strict, and the percussion parts are more elaborate and interlocking (and flutes are sometimes a part of it too). Adowa is also usually sung along with the band, while kete is only the percussion, dancing, and sometimes flutes."

**
4. Opoku-Ware Douglas, 2020
"And every move has a meaning."

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3: Amazing kete dance with typical sign language - who can explain this?



FOSHUAA TV, Dec. 13, 2019
-snip-
Here are two comments from this video's discussion thread:

1. Mustapha Hadji, 2020
"
I can see the dancer started learning the dance from her infancy"

**
Reply
2. 
FOSUAA TV, 2020
"
Yes very experienced"

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #4: Kete Dance beautifully performed by Early Bird International School



Bambini TV, Feb. 7, 2020


****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #5: AMAZING KETE DANCE BY A YOUNG BOY



ADAM SAFRO, Feb. 13, 2021

****
This concludes Part III of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Video Of Ghana's Harmonious Chorale At The World Choir Games (2018)

Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post showcases a video of Ghana's Harmonious Chorale at the World Choir Games (2018).

This post also provides information about the World Choir Games and the Harmonious Chorale.

The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are associated with Ghana's Harmonious Choir. Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publisher of this video on YouTube.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO: HARMONIOUS CHORALE AT WORLD CHOIR GAMES 2018



HARMONIOUS CHORALE - GHANA, Published on Nov 14, 2018

Harmonious Chorale at the 10th World Choir Games. Ghana's sole participant at the world choir games crowned winners at World Choir Games. The choir won the newly created category C28 (Champions Competition). Harmonious Chorale Ghana picked up three gold diploma; emerging as the overall winner in one of the category from the open competition.
-snip-
The first song that the Harmonious Chorale sang in this video (beginning at 2:33) is an arrangement of "Lift Every Voice And Sing), which is known as "the African American National Anthem". Click https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xal0GigaoPQ for a full rendition of this song from this Ghanaian choir.

****
INFORMATION ABOUT THE WORLD CHOIR GAMES
From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Choir_Games
"The World Choir Games (formerly named the Choir Olympics) is the largest global choral festival and competition.[1] Organised by the Interkultur Foundation for amateur choirs from all over the world, regardless of their country of origin, race, genre of music or artistic ambitions, its motto is "Singing together brings nations together".[2] The Games originated from the idea to bring people together through singing in peaceful competition, showing that unity of nations through the arts can be effectively and illustratively demonstrated and challenged.[3] The focus of the Games is on participation above winning, and it aims to inspire people to "experience the strength of interaction, challenging personality and community equally by singing together".[4]

The most recent host of the Games was Tshwane, South Africa from 4 - 14 July 2018, and the next edition of the Games will be co-hosted by Antwerp and Ghent, Belgium from 5 – 15 July 2020.[5][6]

General
The Games are hosted biennially (every even year) in a pre-select city across the globe, where choirs compete in selected categories. In 2012, for instance, there were 23 categories,[7] and in 2016 there were 29 categories, among them "Senior Choirs" and "University Choirs".[8] The Games consist of competitions in two classes (Champions and Open), festival concerts, artistic workshops, and various ceremonies.[9] During the competition, choirs compete for gold, silver, bronze, or "Successful Participation" awards. Medals are awarded in the Champions Competition, and diplomas are awarded in the Open Competition. The choir that attains the highest point and a gold medal in a category during the Champions Competition is awarded the title of "Champion of the World Choir Games" for that category.

As part of the festival aspect of the Games choirs may also choose to participate in artistic workshops featuring renowned choral instructors, as well as friendship concerts and free public concerts where choirs share their music with choristers and audiences from different parts of the world.[10][11] Ceremonies that form part of the Games include opening and closing ceremonies where up to 20 000 choristers join in a single venue, as well as the award ceremonies where the outcomes of the Open Competition and Champions Competition are announced. During the proceedings of the Games, the host for the next edition of the Games is usually also announced."

****
NFORMATION ABOUT HARMONIOUS CHOIR
From
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmonious_Chorale
"Harmonious Chorale (HC) is an interdenominational choir based in Accra, Ghana. It is adjudged one of Ghana's best groups.[1] It was formerly formed as the Harmonious Quartet in 2005[2] and established as Harmonious Chorale in 2007.[3]

Dr. Joyce Rosalind Aryee, the founder and Executive Director of Salt and Light Ministries is the Chairman of the choir.[4] The choir is under the directorship of James Varrick Armaah (founder of Harmonious Chorale),[5] composer of popular choral song, 'Oye', and graduate from the school of performing arts Music Department of the University of Ghana, Legon.[6][7]

Harmonious Chorale released its debut album, Come Let Us Sing in 2009.[2]

Harmonious Chorale in 2016 instituted the Joyce Rosalind Aryee International Conference for Choirs,[8] an annual event in appreciation of Aryee's contribution to the promotion and sustenance of chorale music.[9]

Harmonious Chorale was the guest choir at the University of Ghana's maiden edition of the UG Choral Music festival.[10] Harmonious Chorale joined musicians such as Don Moen, Sinach, Angela Christie and Leonel Peterson at the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival, the largest gathering of carol singers in the world, under the auspices of the Governor of the Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.[11]

Harmonious Chorale is the first choir to represent Ghana at the 2018 World Choir Games held in South Africa .[12][13]

Awards
2015 Music of Ghanaian Origin (MOGO) Festival - Best Choral Group[14]
2015 [1] GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Choir of the Year[15]
2016 [2] GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Choir of the Year [16]
2018 [3] Shine Awards - Best Choral Group[17][18][19]
2018 World Choir Games - Golden Diploma (Level 1 Category 09 Mixed choirs)[20][21]
2018 World Choir Games - Golden Diploma (Level IV Category 016 Musica Sacra with Accompaniment)[20][21]
2018 World Choir Games- Winner (Scenic Folklore)[20][21]
2018 World Choir Games - Champions of the World Choir Games ( C28 Open Repertoire)[22][23]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Choir of the Year[24]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Oratorio of the Year (Joseph & His Brethren) [25]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Easter Concert of the Year (Festival of Praise and Worship) [25]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Instrumentalist of the year (Augustine Sobeng, Harmonious Chorale) [25]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Female Vocal of the Year (Lordina Eugenia Osei, Harmonious Chorale)[25]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Composer of the Year (James Varrick Armaah) [25]
2018 GHYouth Choir Choral Festival & Awards - Choral Song of the Year (Nea Wode Me Abeduru Nie, James Varrick Armaah, Harmonious Chorale) [25]"

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SELECTED COMMENTS FROM THIS EMBEDDED VIDEO'S DISCUSSION THREAD
Numbers are added for referencing purposes only.

1. Norbert Naanume, 2018
"Thank You Harmonious Chorale for making Ghana proud. World Champions!!!!

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2. Anita Adubofour, 2018
"Amen.Congratulations HC...Ghana on the map!"

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3. Ebo Bondzie, 2018
"And this radio presenters don't even talk about
And everyday talking about politics"

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4. raphael dotse, 2018
"I'm in love with this great group for a long time, can't even describe the joy they bring to my life any time I watch n listen to their marvelous renditions. Big ups Especially my mentor Varrick"
-snip-
Composer James Varrick Armaah is the Founder and Director of the Harmonious Chorale.

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5. Margaret Asamoah, 2018
"But next time be more diverse, Ghana has other languages ,dances, cultures. If you r representing Us, Thanks , CONGRATS !!πŸ™πŸ™πŸ™πŸ‘"

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REPLY
6. Tebis VanKelvin, 2019
"@Margaret Asamoah ... They couldn't represent the whole tribes equally that's why they tried representing on ethnic lines with their cultural dressings...

If you look well at the cultural part you will notice every tribe/ethnic group was fairly represented.."

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7. Wisdom Prince, 2019
"Arguably, HC is the best chorale group in Ghana over the past 50 years. Kudos guys for lifting high the flag of Ghana."

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8. Gwynne Cain, 2019
"Interesting to look at this, there is so much African American creativity here you may not think that there was a difference. During Black History Month we may have something that depicts life like it was during the 1600 and 1700's it would be something in this nature, different tribes at Congo Square entertaining themselves. I really like the percussion arangements, but I have a problem with the voicings that are very much European, I am missing a Bass in the voicing that I love to hear, but maybe it is in another country.The voicing arrangement is tooooo much European. They took away the original sound of the African Culture. They catered the music to the people who were doing the competition. Congratulations , next time put some African blackness back in it. We have some choirs in America that will really give you a show. But congratulations because you worked hard to get there and it paid off. But it would be even better if you would stay in the genre that is represented in your culture, undiluted. Just my Opinon."

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REPLY
9. HARMONIOUS CHORALE - GHANA, 2019
"Many thanks and Suggestion well taken. The harmony was done specifically for the Olympics. We promise to give the world more Africanness as we known for in our next production. Thank you."

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REPLY
10. Hannah Dorkenu, 2019
"Although I may agree with you from a certain perspective. I do not understand what you mean by African Culture. Africa itself consists of different cultural groups. Even in Ghana, we have almost over 30 cultural groups. I don't think there is anything like African culture from where I stand in Ghana. And know that this is my opinion. What African American think of Africa may not be as it is. The choir as they were presenting put in twists from different cultural groups in Ghana. I heard a Ga song, a twi song, even saw Borborbor from eweland, Kpalogo from Ga's and Adowa from the Akans. Correct me if I am wrong but I don't know how African you want us to go again, considering the term choir is European."

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REPLY
11. Prince Jadon, 2019
"@Hannah Dorkenu even ewes didn't have one culture"

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REPLY
12. Akosua Adjeiwaa, 2019
"Please i am from Ghana, there's nathing wrong with the show. What do you know about African or Ghana culture."

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REPLY
13. intuitive self-love, 2019
"@Hannah Dorkenu she just wants you to bark like a dog and run naked lol joke aside many people think Africa is a culture. Lol"

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REPLY
14. Hannah Dorkenu, 2019
"@Prince Jadon Exactly"

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15. Asso asso eric, 2019
"Mes fΓ©licitations Γ  ce magnifique groupe qui fait plaisir Γ  ce bon continent d'Afrique"
-snip-
Google translation from French to English:
"Congratulations to this wonderful group that makes this continent of Africa happy"

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16. GH aviator, 2019
"The cultural part was lit. I'm so happy I bumped into this video. Definitely subscribing. πŸ˜‰πŸ˜‰πŸ˜‰πŸ˜‰"

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17. Margaret Asamoah, 2019
"Work well done All I am saying is be Diverse, Agbadja, Astiagbeko, Gbolo, Borborbor, etc, then you r fully representing Gna , The Ashanti leadership !!!l please. J Nash !!!!"

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REPLY
18. Aso Bosiako, 2019
"Margaret Asamoah let's stop such talks...its Ghanaian and beautiful."

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19. Aseye Diaba, 2019
"Knowing how rich our culture and history is, I cannot rationalize why Ghanaians parents are paying $$$ to send their kids to school in Ghana that primarily teaches a British or American history and culture (curriculum) . Can someone tell me if they’ve seen any pupil in England or America learning about Ghanaian history. How many kids today know about the history of the black stool? Yet you will find Ghanaian kids in international schools in Ghana learning about the 1066 battle of Hastings. We are raising a generation of Ghanaian kids who know absolutely nothing about their culture and fail to see how this will impact us in the future .We are the same folks who will scream if a white man appropriates our culture and starts selling it to us because we do not know the value of what we have. Let us emancipate ourselves from mental slavery.

Well done harmonious chorale for representing our people and culture so well"

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20. Nketiah Manu Joseph, 2019
"Awwww my God I feel like crying ooo😭😭😭😭😭😭😭Ghana ooooooo Ghana"

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21. Linda Ofoli, 2019
"Watching from Italy..much love for Ghanaaaaaaaaaa my motherland❤❤❤❤"

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22. Harriet Afia Mensah, 2019
"Why are we not hearing about this in the media??? They did a FANTASTIC JOB, I'm very proud"

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