Adaptation of the Griot Caste in the Post-Colonial Society of West Africa

Griots play an important role in preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the peoples of West Africa. The first written references to them date back to the 13th century. For several centuries, the Griots have managed to preserve their identity. However, the cultural and social role of the “artisans of the word” underwent significant changes in the postcolonial period. This article examines the postcolonial cultural politics of Modibo Keita, Sékou Touré, and Léopold Sédar Senghor. The leaders of the young states pursued a policy of modernization aimed at reviving cultural traditions at the same time. They purposefully used the historically established authority of the Griots to influence the masses through their creativity. The Griots assumed the role of the “voice” of the state, successfully integrating the traditional music and oral traditions of the Manden peoples into new realities. They updated their musical repertoire with contemporary musical instruments and new arrangements. The Griots remade renowned songs of praise about legendary heroes of the past, replacing their names with those of modern leaders. These reinterpretations were supported and sponsored by the governments of Mali, Senegal, and Guinea. Later, when the Griots freed themselves from ideological censorship, they turned to economic and social issues in their work. Most of the Griots remained musicians and singers. Those Griots who chose to pursue a political career assumed the role of advisers and spokespersons for government officials. This paper researches the transformation of the social status of the Griots in the postcolonial era.