Gullah

Although separation from the African coast and industrialization has taken hold of the previously isolated island that belonged to the Gullah people many traditions have remained intact. The music is original, still reflecting the songs that were sung during times of work in the rice fields, really only contains words to uplift spirits. I read that “Out Shouting” circles is a tradition that has completely died out but when the people come together to dance and celebrate for whatever reason some of those same aspects still remain. Music is played on drums by the men, the women dancing, and instead of a circle the floor is open and whenever somebody got the need they could jump up and dance a little, all the while there was a woman giving random outbursts. It may not be the same “Out Shouting” circles that were seen in the past, but these gatherings today still reflect strongly old Gullah tradition. What is different about the preservation efforts of the Gullah music culture as well as the rest of the culture is that it is not limited to elderly members of the community. The knowledge is shared with all ages, more young people are involved which has probably contributed to the strong sense of individuality that has remained with these people. Gullah people of all ages can speak the language, dance the dances, as well as sing the songs and play the music.