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Sudan Tribune

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Young South Sudanese artists: abandoning traditions?

By Philip Thon Aleu

March 8, 2011 (KAMPALA) – As western music takes the place of the traditional arts in South Sudan, family names are too being lost in the process. The young men and women exploiting the emerging entertainment industry choose western influenced songs and aliases such Dan Joyling or 40 J as their preferred names.

Artist ‘Dan Joyling’ (left) explains to the ST's Philip Thon (right) why young South Sudanese musicians use aliases. Kampala, Uganda. March 8, 2011 (ST)
Artist ‘Dan Joyling’ (left) explains to the ST’s Philip Thon (right) why young South Sudanese musicians use aliases. Kampala, Uganda. March 8, 2011 (ST)
“Our fathers didn’t give us this chance to be in music,” said Jol Garang Jol, alias Dan Joyling, the head of the South Sudanese musicians association in Uganda.

“They say that if you are an artist, perhaps you are somebody who is spoiled….and afterwards, when you become known, then the family will like what you are doing,” he added.

In an interview with the Sudan Tribune, Joyling said he is no longer concerned about telling his family about his career choice, now that he is succeeding.

South Sudanese artist Jol Garang Jol, AKA <em>Dan Joyling</em>” title=”South Sudanese artist Jol Garang Jol, AKA <em>Dan Joyling</em>” class=”caption” align=”left” />When an elder criticised local artists’ preference for western or foreign names during a function on 4 and 5 March in Kampala, a young musician, identified as <em>40 J</em> publically supported his fellow musicians.</p>
<p>“Put on track number four,” he yelled. As the audience patiently waited for the DJ to click on the number, <em>40 J</em> interrupted: “We use international names. Not local names and that is how we make it.” There were cheers and whistling in the room before his track ensued.</p>
<p>All members of the South Sudan music association are students, according to their leader. The group, “with many members” as their president put it, concentrates on studies during week and entertains fans on special arrangement.</p>
<p><img src=Audioboo clip below.

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3 Comments

  • Hero
    Hero

    Young South Sudanese artists: abandoning traditions?
    I see nothing wrong about their naming.So let them pursues their goal without distraction.

    Reply
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