Dadakuada is a type of Yoruba performance art form which originated from and is popular among the people of Kwara. [1] [2]
Dadakuada started about three hundred years ago, [3] according to folktales. Its lyrics basically are made of eulogy, ballad (ijala), incantation, invocation and some abusive words or some fun words. It is a folk genre of music similar to juju music and other types of folk music. [4] Dadakuada is very rich in beats which are derived from traditional instruments like talking drum, bata, gangan and agogo. Its singers are always in a band or what seems like a band, it contains a lead singer and others who support him as he is singing. The supporters are the accompanist, lead drummer, drummer, money-keeper and assistant vocalist. They are always seated in a semi-circle and they perform in any event, ranging from naming ceremonies to funeral. Later on the music genre spread to other south-western parts of Nigeria. They have an apprenticeship program where an upcoming dadakuada singer follows a professional singer to any function he has. [5] [6] Notable dadakuada musicians: Odolaye Aremu, Aremu Ose, Jiayegbade Alao, Baba Eyin Oke, Balu Iyabo.