Songs and Music With Nigerian Identity Cultural and Creative Arts Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes Week 5

Title: Songs and Music with Nigerian Identity

Subject: Cultural and Creative Arts

Class: Primary 5

Term: First Term

Week: 5

Topic: Songs and Music with Nigerian Identity

Duration: 45 minutes

Learning Objectives:

1. Introduce students to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria through songs and music.
2. Explore the diversity of Nigerian music genres and their importance.
3. Foster an appreciation for traditional Nigerian instruments and rhythms.
4. Encourage creativity in composing songs with Nigerian themes.

Previous Lesson: Nigerian Traditional Dances

Embedded Core Skills:

• Cultural Awareness
• Creativity
• Listening Skills

Learning Materials:

• Audio recordings of Nigerian music
• Pictures and videos of traditional Nigerian instruments
• Drawing materials
• Musical instruments (if available)

Content:

To identify themes related to patriotism in a song, you can listen for lyrics that express love, pride, or devotion to one’s country. Here’s a brief excerpt from “Which Way Nigeria” by Sonny Okosun:

Excerpt from “Which Way Nigeria” by Sonny Okosun: “Which way Nigeria Which way to go I can’t tell you I can’t tell you now Which way Nigeria Which way to go I can’t tell you I can’t tell you now”

In this song, the theme of patriotism is evident in the questioning of the country’s direction and a desire to see Nigeria progress and thrive. The song raises important questions about the nation’s future.

Other patriotic Nigerian singers include:

1. Fela Kuti: Known for songs like “Zombie” and “Sorrow, Tears, and Blood,” Fela Kuti’s music often carried strong political and patriotic messages.
2. Nneka: Her song “Nigeria” reflects her love for the country and her desire to see positive change.
3. 2Baba (formerly 2Face Idibia): With songs like “One Love” and “For Instance,” 2Baba has conveyed messages of unity and patriotism.
4. Burna Boy: While addressing various themes, some of Burna Boy’s songs like “Dangote” touch on issues affecting Nigeria.

These artists, through their music, have contributed to the discussion of patriotism, social issues, and the future of Nigeria

[mediator_tech]

Evaluation 

1. Patriotism in a song often expresses love and ________ for one’s country. a) Hate b) Pride c) Sadness d) Fear
2. In “Which Way Nigeria” by Sonny Okosun, the singer questions the ________ of Nigeria. a) Size b) Direction c) Shape d) Color
3. Other than Sonny Okosun, Fela Kuti was known for songs with strong ________ messages. a) Love b) Political c) Romantic d) Funny
4. Nneka’s song “Nigeria” reflects her ________ for the country. a) Dislike b) Indifference c) Love d) Fear
5. 2Baba’s song “One Love” conveys a message of ________ and patriotism. a) Division b) Unity c) Sadness d) Fear
6. Burna Boy’s song “Dangote” addresses various ________, including those affecting Nigeria. a) Countries b) Problems c) Foods d) Sports
7. Patriotism is often shown through lyrics that express ________ for one’s homeland. a) Disinterest b) Pride c) Boredom d) Surprise
8. Singers who promote love for their country are often considered ________. a) Confused b) Patriotic c) Quiet d) Lazy
9. “Which Way Nigeria” by Sonny Okosun is a song about questioning Nigeria’s ________. a) Size b) Color c) Direction d) Shape
10. Songs with patriotic themes aim to ________ love and pride for one’s nation. a) Encourage b) Discourage c) Ignore d) Forget
11. In “Nigeria” by Nneka, the singer expresses her ________ for the country. a) Indifference b) Love c) Fear d) Hatred
12. Fela Kuti’s songs often carried strong ________ and social messages. a) Romantic b) Funny c) Political d) Boring
13. 2Baba’s “One Love” promotes the idea of ________ and togetherness. a) Division b) Unity c) Sadness d) Fear
14. Burna Boy’s song “Dangote” touches on various ________ affecting Nigeria. a) Countries b) Problems c) Foods d) Sports
15. Singers who promote love for their country are often seen as ________ citizens. a) Confused b) Patriotic c) Quiet d) Lazy

1. Afrobeat:
   • Description: Afrobeat is a dynamic fusion of traditional Nigerian rhythms, jazz, highlife, and funk, characterized by complex percussion and horn arrangements.
   • Artists & Records: Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeat, released iconic albums like “Zombie” and “Expensive Shit.” Today, artists like Burna Boy carry the Afrobeat legacy forward with records like “African Giant.”
2. Highlife:
   • Description: Highlife is known for its joyful and danceable melodies, featuring guitars, horns, and percussion instruments.
   • Artists & Records: Highlife legends like Sir Victor Uwaifo and Rex Lawson produced classics like “Guitar Boy” and “Sawale.” More recently, Adekunle Gold’s “About 30” album incorporates highlife elements.
3. Juju:
   • Description: Juju music showcases talking drums, guitars, and Yoruba lyrics, offering a distinct rhythmic experience.
   • Artists & Records: King Sunny Ade, a Juju music icon, released the acclaimed album “Juju Music.” His hit songs like “Ja Funmi” are timeless examples of the genre.
4. Gospel:
   • Description: Nigerian gospel music is deeply rooted in Christianity and conveys spiritual and uplifting themes.
   • Artists & Records: Sinach’s “Way Maker” has gained international recognition for its inspirational message. Additionally, Tope Alabi’s “Yes and Amen” is a beloved gospel record.
5. Hip-Hop and Afro-Pop:
   • Description: These contemporary genres blend Nigerian music with global influences.
   • Artists & Records: Wizkid’s “Sounds from the Other Side” exemplifies Afro-Pop’s international appeal, while Burna Boy’s “African Giant” showcases his unique fusion of Afrobeat and hip-hop.
6. Traditional Folk Music:
   • Description: Various Nigerian ethnic groups have distinct traditional music styles, preserving their cultural heritage.
   • Artists & Records: The Ibibio Sound Machine, blending traditional Ibibio music with modern sounds, has produced captivating albums like “Uyai.”
7. Reggae:
   • Description: Reggae has a presence in Nigeria, often infused with local rhythms and themes.
   • Artists & Records: Ras Kimono’s “Under Pressure” and Majek Fashek’s “Prisoner of Conscience” are notable Nigerian reggae records.
8. Fuji:
   • Description: Fuji music, rooted in Yoruba communities, features strong percussion and vocals.
   • Artists & Records: Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister “Fuji Garbage” album is an influential work in the genre.

These genres and their associated artists and records showcase Nigeria’s musical diversity and cultural significance on a global scale. They represent a tapestry of talent and creativity, serving as a source of pride and connection for Nigerians and music enthusiasts worldwide

Importance Of Songs and Music With Nigerian Identity 

Nigerian music is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of genres that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary influences. Here’s an exploration of some of the most prominent Nigerian music genres and their importance:

1. Afrobeat:
   • Description: Afrobeat is a fusion of traditional Nigerian rhythms, jazz, highlife, and funk. It’s known for its complex percussion and horn arrangements.
   • Importance: Afrobeat, popularized by Fela Kuti, is more than just music; it’s a platform for social and political commentary. It addresses issues like corruption, oppression, and injustice, making it a powerful tool for activism and raising awareness.
2. Highlife:
   • Description: Highlife is characterized by its joyful and danceable melodies, often featuring guitars, horns, and percussion instruments.
   • Importance: Highlife celebrates Nigerian culture and tradition through music. It’s played at celebrations and gatherings, fostering a sense of community and cultural identity.
3. Juju:
   • Description: Juju music features the use of talking drums, guitars, and Yoruba lyrics. It has a distinct rhythmic style.
   • Importance: Juju music is deeply rooted in Yoruba culture and is used in various ceremonies and celebrations. It preserves Yoruba traditions and stories through song.
4. Gospel:
   • Description: Gospel music in Nigeria is influenced by Christianity and is characterized by spiritual and uplifting themes.
   • Importance: Gospel music provides a means for religious expression and worship. It offers comfort and inspiration to millions of Nigerians and serves as a tool for spreading the Christian faith.
5. Hip-Hop and Afro-Pop:
   • Description: Hip-hop and Afro-pop are contemporary genres that fuse elements of Nigerian music with global influences.
   • Importance: These genres have gained international recognition and contributed to Nigeria’s cultural influence worldwide. They offer a modern interpretation of Nigerian music while staying connected to its roots.
6. Traditional Folk Music:
   • Description: Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups have their own unique traditional music styles, instruments, and dances.
   • Importance: Traditional folk music is vital in preserving Nigeria’s cultural diversity. It’s passed down through generations, telling stories and conveying the history of different ethnic groups.
7. Reggae:
   • Description: Reggae has a presence in Nigeria, often infused with local rhythms and themes.
   • Importance: Nigerian reggae artists use their music to address societal issues and promote unity and peace, aligning with the genre’s global messages.
8. Fuji:
   • Description: Fuji music originated in Yoruba communities and features strong percussion and vocal elements.
   • Importance: Fuji music reflects Yoruba culture and provides a soundtrack for traditional events and celebrations.

In summary, the diversity of Nigerian music genres is a testament to the country’s cultural richness and the creativity of its artists. These genres play a significant role in expressing Nigerian identity, addressing social and political issues, preserving traditions, and entertaining people both within and beyond Nigeria’s borders. They are a source of national pride and a means of connecting with diverse audiences worldwide

[mediator_tech]

Evaluation 

1. Nigerian music is rich in ________ different types of music. a) Similar b) Diverse c) Boring d) Expensive
2. Afrobeat is a blend of Nigerian rhythms and other ________ of music. a) Fruits b) Genres c) Animals d) Vehicles
3. Fela Kuti is famous for pioneering ________ music. a) Juju b) Gospel c) Afrobeat d) Highlife
4. Highlife music is known for its ________ and happy melodies. a) Sad b) Joyful c) Slow d) Angry
5. Juju music often features talking drums and ________ lyrics. a) French b) Yoruba c) Spanish d) Chinese
6. Gospel music in Nigeria is deeply connected to ________. a) Football b) Christianity c) Mathematics d) Fashion
7. Hip-hop and Afro-Pop genres mix Nigerian music with ________. a) Chocolate b) Global influences c) Mountains d) Dreams
8. Traditional folk music is important for preserving ________. a) Old shoes b) Cultural diversity c) Computers d) Modern art
9. Reggae music in Nigeria carries ________ messages. a) Political b) Food c) Birthday d) Cartoon
10. Fuji music has a strong presence in ________ culture. a) Yoruba b) Igbo c) Hausa d) Kanuri
11. Nigerian music genres express love for ________ culture. a) Italian b) Nigerian c) Chinese d) Brazilian
12. Nigerian music connects people with their ________ and traditions. a) Cars b) Hobbies c) Culture d) Clothing
13. Burna Boy is known for his fusion of ________ and hip-hop. a) Reggae b) Gospel c) Afrobeat d) Country
14. Nigerian music is a source of ________ and creativity. a) Sadness b) Pride c) Confusion d) Silence
15. Nigerian music genres celebrate the ________ of the country. a) Colors b) History c) Mountains d) Ocean

Presentation:

Step 1: Recap the previous lesson on Nigerian traditional dances, emphasizing the importance of dance in culture.

Step 2: Introduce the topic of “Songs and Music with Nigerian Identity.”

Teacher’s Activities:

• Explain that music is an essential part of Nigerian culture.
• Share examples of Nigerian music genres.
• Play audio recordings of different Nigerian songs.

Learners’ Activities:

• Listen attentively to the music examples.
• Show interest in learning about Nigerian music.

Content:

Nigerian Music Genres:

1. Afrobeat: Explain that Afrobeat is a popular Nigerian genre known for its fusion of traditional rhythms and modern elements. Mention artists like Fela Kuti.
2. Highlife: Describe Highlife as a joyful and danceable genre, often featuring guitars and horns. Mention its influence on West African music.
3. Juju: Discuss Juju music, known for its talking drums and Yoruba lyrics. Explain its cultural significance.
4. Gospel: Explain that Gospel music in Nigeria is deeply rooted in Christianity and is used for worship and praise.

Traditional Instruments:

• Show pictures and videos of traditional Nigerian instruments like the talking drum, xylophone, and shekere.
• Explain their roles in Nigerian music and culture.

Creativity Activity:

• Encourage students to create their own songs or rhythms inspired by Nigerian culture.
• Provide drawing materials for them to design album covers for their imaginary Nigerian music albums.

Assessment:

• Evaluate students’ creativity during the activity.
• Observe their engagement and interest in Nigerian music.

Evaluation Questions:

1. What is Afrobeat, and who is a famous Afrobeat musician from Nigeria? a) A dance style b) A music genre c) A language d) Fela Kuti
2. Which Nigerian music genre is known for its use of talking drums and Yoruba lyrics? a) Highlife b) Gospel c) Juju d) Reggae
3. Why are traditional Nigerian instruments important in music? a) They are expensive b) They add cultural richness c) They are loud d) They are modern

Conclusion:

• Summarize the key points about Nigerian songs and music, emphasizing their cultural significance and diversity.
• Encourage students to explore and appreciate Nigerian music in their daily lives