Griots, a term synonymous with West African storytellers who, through music, ensure the lineage of wisdom lives on in successive generations. How can any society live, breath and be reinvigorated on those weary days without a helping hand from the past?
Like the transformative touch of Adam and God, so too does the griot breathe power into the lives of its people through oral tradition. For Paul Oliver:
"Though [the griot] has to know many traditional songs without error, he must also have the ability to extemporize on current events, chance incidents and the passing scene. His wit can be devastating and his knowledge of local history formidable."
Essentially, these musicians were walking history books, preserving their ancient stories and traditions through song. Their inherited tradition was passed down through generations. Their name, jeli, means "blood" in Manika language. They were said to have deep connections to spiritual, social, or political powers as music is associated as such. Speech is also said to have power as it can recreate history and relationships.
Where are we today as Malaysians? WHO are we? Can we possibly be free, if we don't know who we are?
Some inspiration from Mali's most famous griot - Salif Keita.
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