JAMAICAN MUSICAL INSTRUMENT SLIDE SHOW: Scroll over image and click "Play"
Song Lyrics
TONGO
Tongo Jimnee bye bye oh Tongo Oom ba de kim bye oh Ooh a lay Mah le ka ah lo way
Background
"Tongo" is a Polynesian "echo" song. The leader sings one line and the group echoes the words. For example: LEADER: Tongo GROUP: Tongo LEADER: Jimnee bye bye oh GROUP: Jimnee bye bye on etc...
Tongo is a "work song" used while rowing to help keep everyone rowing in rhythm with each other and to help pass the time.
Fun Facts
Polynesia means "many islands" in Greek
The Polynesian islands were settled in 2000 BC
The settlers of the Polynesian Islands called themselves "Maoris."
New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawaii are 3 of the many Polynesian Islands
Language:
The languages of the Polyesian Islands include: Native languages of the islands; Maori; Tahitian; French; English
GREETINGS:
In Tahiti, many people greet each other by saying: "Where are you going?"
The answer is either, "Inland" (away from the coast) or "Seaward" (toward the coast).
The response might be: "What's new at the inland/seaward end?"