SONGS AS METAPHOR FOR SOCIAL CRITICISM AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: THE SAMARU PROJECT FORMS

Abstract

Social and infrastructural developments are basic necessities in every society as they impact healthy living. These are borne out of human creativity and innovation. This study expounds the potency of songs as metaphor for social criticism towards community development. It focuses on the songs created and used as well as their thematic emphasis in the 2024 Samaru community theatre project in Zaria, Kaduna State. Although, several studies focuses on popular music in criticizing government or leadership towards social transformation, this study centres on the metaphoric songs that condemns community maladjustment and raises campaigns for social development through community members. Through the concept of synchronism as a theoretical footing for the work, this study deploys a qualitative methodology which analyses the lyrical content of songs that addresses social ills in the Samaru community. Thus, the study reveals the synergic effect that existed between students of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and Samaru Community members in the songs creation, and presentation during the Samaru project performance addressing social ills and crusading for an enabling environment for community development. This synergetic approach of addressing community problems and proffering solution for social development is productive and aptly triggers lasting impression in the community. Therefore, the study recommends for the sustenance of such approach for quick response to curbing societal maladjustment for the overall development of the community