Songs as Agent of Satire in Ͻmpε Traditional Ensemble of Effutu

Abstract

Songs are largely noted for varied usage in the milieu of many cultures across the world. This essay seeks to explore the satirical nature of selected songs that critique societal challenges. The Osimpam Ͻmpε ensemble is a pure traditional group that uses the happenings of the day-to-day activities of the citizenry to either criticize or commend them for their actions. In the case of this ensemble, songs are seen or shown as agent of satire. The ensemble in effect uses its songs especially in the area of politics, social and personal deeds of leaders and the entire society. It then uses its performance of songs to expose and denounce behaviours that are injurious to the health of the society. The paper employs the use of content analysis as an approach to investigate the element of satire in the songs the ensemble produces.