cape verde

The Groovy Sounds of Cape Verde: From Morna to Funana

Cape Verde, a volcanic archipelago nestled in the Atlantic, boasts a rich musical heritage that’s as diverse as its landscapes. While its music draws inspiration from Portugal, Africa, and the Caribbean, it has developed a unique identity with a captivating blend of soulful melodies and rhythmic energy.

Morna: The Soul of Cape Verde

Born from the sorrows of slavery and the yearning for homeland, morna is the heart and soul of Cape Verdean music. This melancholic genre features a slow, haunting melody, often accompanied by a Portuguese guitar, cavaquinho (a small four-string guitar), and the evocative voice of a singer.

Funana: Rhythms of Celebration

While morna evokes introspection, funana is all about joyful celebration! With its fast-paced rhythms and infectious melodies, funana often incorporates percussion instruments like the taba (a wooden drum) and the ferrinho (a metal scraper). It’s a music that encourages dancing and is typically associated with social gatherings and festivities.

A Whimsical History:

• B. Leza: The Morna King – This legendary singer was so popular, his concerts were often packed with enthusiastic fans, including the then governor of Cape Verde!
• Cesária Évora: The Barefoot Diva – This iconic singer, known as the “Barefoot Diva,” brought morna to international recognition, becoming a global icon. She even wore her signature bare feet on stage, reflecting her humble origins.
• The “Funana Revolution” – In the 1970s, a group of young musicians from Cape Verde decided to take the funana genre to a whole new level, infusing it with contemporary elements. This “revolution” introduced a fresh perspective, and the funana sound continues to evolve today.

Funny Facts:

• The “Morna Sing-Along” – Cape Verdeans are known for their love of music and often break into spontaneous sing-alongs, even in the most unexpected places.
• The “Cavaquinho Craze” – The cavaquinho is so popular in Cape Verde, that you’ll find them everywhere! Many musicians have their own unique style of playing the instrument, contributing to the diverse soundscape of the country.
• The “Funana Dance-Off” – Funana music is all about dancing, and local festivals often feature lively dance competitions where participants show off their moves!

Beyond Morna and Funana:

While morna and funana are the most iconic genres, Cape Verdean music also features other styles like coladeira (a lively, energetic genre), batuque (a traditional drum-based music), and mbalax (a Senegalese influence).

A Groovy Future:

The music of Cape Verde continues to evolve, incorporating influences from global music scenes while staying true to its roots. From traditional instruments like the cavaquinho and the tabab to contemporary beats and electronic sounds, Cape Verdean music is a vibrant tapestry of genres and influences, sure to keep grooving for generations to come.