-Hello, What I’ve been doing since my last blog is trying to sing lead or “Akpuon” with the bata at these last few gatherings and I am humbled! The bata rhythms that I “know” from singing at Bembes (spiritual gatherings) for years are now sounding different. Being the “Akpuon” or lead singer has my ears open in an entirely different way. Knowing firstly where the song is with the clave. Then trying to play clave using the “achere,” (a maraca) Once that is ok I then bring in the lead or “akpuon.”
Needless to say I am learning and growing.
Thank you!