talking-drum - Art Sphere Inc.

Gangan (talking drum)

The talking drum, originating from West Africa, is a drum shaped like an hourglass, capable of imitating human speech in terms of tone and prosody. It consists of two drumheads connected by leather tension cords, enabling the player to alter the drum’s pitch by rubbing the cords against their arm and body.

During the 18th century, these talking drum players utilized various tones to communicate messages, including news about ceremonies and commands, across distances spanning 4-5 miles.

Hourglass-shaped talking drums have a long and significant history, dating back to various West African cultures like the Bono, Yoruba, Ghana Empire, and Hausa people. These drums served as essential instruments for the region’s griots, storytellers, and musicians. The Yoruba and Dagomba communities, particularly in southwestern Nigeria, Benin, and northern Ghana, have developed intricate and sophisticated genres of griot music centered around the talking drum.

It’s worth noting that this unique construction of talking drums is primarily found within the contemporary borders of West Africa, with exceptions in northern Cameroon and western Chad.

Talking drums come in various sizes, and their dimensions can vary among different ethnic groups, while still adhering to a consistent design.

The Tama, belonging to the Serer, Wolof, and Mandinka peoples, is characterized by its smaller size, with an average drum length of about 13 centimeters (5.1 inches) and a drum head diameter of 7 centimeters (2.8 inches). Due to these dimensions, the Tama produces a higher pitched tone compared to other talking drums with the same construction.

On the contrary, the Yoruba and Dagomba peoples have some of the largest drum sizes in their Lunna and Dùndún ensembles. The drums in these ensembles typically have a length ranging from 23 to 38 centimeters (9.1 to 15.0 inches) and a drum head diameter varying between 10 and 18 centimeters (3.9 and 7.1 inches). Additionally, in Yoruba talking-drum ensembles, these larger drums are often used alongside smaller talking drums similar to the Tama, known as Gangan in the Yoruba language.

Various artists and bands have incorporated the talking drum into their music. King Crimson used it in the track “The Talking Drum” on their album Larks’ Tongues in Aspic. Tom Waits featured it in “Trouble’s Braids” from the album Swordfishtrombones. Erykah Badu used the talking drum in “My People” on her album New Amerykah Part One (4th World War). Sikiru Adepoju, a Nigerian master of the talking drum, collaborated with artists like Grateful Dead, Stevie Wonder, and Carlos Santana. Naná Vasconcelos, a renowned percussionist, started using the talking drum in the early 1980s. Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac incorporated it in the track “World Turning” on their 1975 eponymous album and in live performances. Additionally, David Byrne’s Broadway musical American Utopia and HBO concert film included a tama player in several songs during the show.

How do I play the instrument?

This technique involves striking the drumhead with one hand holding the stick, while the other free hand is used to quickly dampen and alter the tones right after striking. As a result, the playing produces a distinctive rubbery texture that imitates the rich and intricate tones found in the languages spoken within this geographical area.

Are there any instrument similar to this one?

Over time, numerous variations of the talking drum emerged. However, non-hourglass shapes also emerged and were given specific names, such as the Dunan, Sangban, Kenkeni, Fontomfrom, and Ngoma drums.

How long does it take to learn?

While it does take some people a few weeks or months to start playing basic rhythms on the Gangan. However, to become proficient and play more complex and traditional rhythms, it may take several months or even years of dedicated learning and practice

Is there special equipment needed for the instrument?

While the African playing drum does not require extensive equipment, there are a few essential items to consider which are: Tuning cords, stick or beater, Dampening Cloth

Rock with a Star!

Let’s enjoy the sound of this instrument through this wonderful performance by the lead talking drummer of the Nigerian Musician, Lagbaja

Mr Olalekun Kiab well known talking drummer he play for lagbaja. He’s a producer ,musician and tutor.