Introduction
Understanding this tradition
Nyabinghi refers to both a Rastafari mansion, spiritual gatherings and a tradition of drums and songs. Groundations combine readings, reasoning, prayer and music in a perspective of black liberation, unity and praise to Jah.
First listening
Three things to hear
- Distinguish the three drum functions.
- Follow the collective resumption of the choruses.
- Listen to how reggae then transforms these rhythmic cells.
History and transmission
Rastafari appeared in Jamaica in the 1930s. Nyabinghi rhythms were structured by contact with African heritages, revivalist practices and Christian songs. Count Ossie and other musicians made them hear on record, then contributing to the foundations of the reggae.
What does it look like?
Three drum roles: the bass marks the foundation, the funda maintains the beat and the reheater improvises. The songs are taken together, with biblical, anticolonial and rastafari texts.
Where and why are we listening?
A groundation is a religious gathering, not a reggae concert. Albums can make rhythms accessible, but they do not reproduce duration, reasoning, or community.
Artists, works and albums
Three listening doors
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Grounation
Count Ossie and the Mystic Revelation of Rastafari
A fundamental work where Nyabinghi, jazz and speech meet.Rastafari
Ras Michael and the Sons of Negus
Songs and drums anchored in the rastafari devotion.Heart of the Congos
The Congos
A classic of reggae roots with strong spiritual harmonies and references.Listen and transmit with respect
Do not reduce Rastafari to cannabis, dreadlocks or Bob Marley. Respect the diversity of mansions and the anticolonial and spiritual reach of Nyabinghi.
Sources