Tiki Music Spotlight: The music of Togo is an important part of the country's cultural identity.
The music is diverse, with a wide variety of genres and styles.
Togo is a small country in West Africa, bordered by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east and Burkina Faso to the north. Its population is estimated at around 7.5 million people, with the majority being of African descent. French is the official language, although many people also speak Ewe and Kabiye. The music of Togo is varied and includes a number of different genres. Traditional music is still very popular, especially in the rural areas, and is often played at ceremonies and festivals. The most well-known traditional instrument is the xylophone, which is used in a style known as kpalogo. Other popular instruments include drums, flutes and guitars. Western music is also popular, particularly in the capital, Lome. A number of different genres are heard, including hip hop, R&B, soul and reggae. There are also a number of nightclubs and bars that feature live music. The music of Togo has been influenced by a number of different cultures, including the indigenous people, the French colonists and the slaves brought from other parts of Africa. This can be heard in the various genres of music that are popular in the country.
Traditional Togolese music is largely rhythm-based, with percussion instruments such as drums and bells being particularly important. The music often has a strong dance element, and is often performed at festivals and ceremonies. There are a number of folk music styles in Togo, including the kpanlogo, agbadza, gahu, and kotokoli. These styles are often based around traditional rhythms, and often make use of traditional instruments such as the xylophone and drums. Western music styles, such as pop, rock, and hip hop, are also popular in Togo. These genres are often blended with traditional Togolese music to create a unique sound. The music of Togo is a reflection of the country's diverse culture and history. It is an important part of Togolese identity, and is enjoyed by people of all ages.