Smokey Joe Sauce Company

Bahamian Music

Goombay is recognised as the traditional music of the islands. The name originates from the main rhythmic instrument, a goatskin drum. There are two main sub-genres under the Goombay umbrella, the first being Rake n’ Scrape, and the second being Junkanoo.

Rake n’ Scrape

Traditionally Rake n’ Scrape music comprises of a rhythm (usually a Goombay drum), a concertina or accordian for melody, and a saw, bent against the musicians body, and scraped with a knife or nail. Rake n’ Scrape still holds mass appeal on the islands, and there are several revered acts and artists who sell very well in the charts. Probably the most recognisable tune with it’s roots in Rake n’ Scrape is “Who let the dogs out” by the Baha Men.

Here’s a couple of links to some Rake n’ Scrape:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTzLid5LMuQ&playnext=1&list=PL4F1D035ACF2BABB4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiSpnAhbU0U

Junkanoo

This is the music which drives the carnival of the same name. It is based around the same Goombay drum rhythms. Junkanoo bands however tend to have large brass sections, and timpani provided by whistles, and specially made handheld junkanoo bells. The emphasis is very much on the rhythm, the sound of a Junkanoo band in full swing makes the ground move!

Here are some links to some great Junkanoo groups:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-M9rqUP0oQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww38RkJAh5E