Modernisation and Popculturisation of (Asalatu) Islamic Music in Nigeria: Trajectories of participation, instrumentalisation and strategies

Abstract

The penetrating effects of modernization in Africa are undeniable, Across social institutions of Africa. observable changes exist to the extent that definitive shifts occur. Religion, however, is one of the most stable social institutions across the world, and in Africa particularly. Changes in religion are often less immediate and less profound. Of all religions in Africa, Islam has, particularly, remained among the most stable religions. This is however not to suggest that Islam has remained immutable as modernization elements have been introduced into Islam, especially the Islamic music in manners that suggest popculturisation of the music especially among the youths. This popculrurisation has created new musical and identity orders in the social system with attendant existentialities across generations and participation. To contribute to bourgeoning bodies of literature on modernization. social change, youth, popular culture, religion and development in Africa, this article investigated the interfaces of modernization and religion through music among the youths in Ibadan. Nigeria. Research questions this article answered are what is the nature of interest of youths in modernised Islamic music’) What are the associated, behaviours, instrumentalisations and strategies in Asalatu Islamic music?