Music moves us, both metaphorically and literally. It is an art in which emotion is expressed; it helps us to share feelings, tell stories, educate and commemorate. This is especially important in (post-) conflict situations, where issues of trust often come up. Through music, people can speak about these issues and their past experiences with conflict, insecurity and violence: topics which are not often discussed publically. By incorporating these narratives into songs, music enables people to address sensitive issues and document events. In this way, music can evoke memories, bring people together and create new connections. By creating a platform for artists, the Wandering Songs project can be part of this process. It gives people the opportunity to tell their own stories -in music- and make others aware of matters they deem important.
Wandering Songs started in August 2013 with ‘Ugandan Recordings’; 111 songs and video clips were recorded in the northern part of Uganda over a period of eight months. The project took place in an area that is heavily affected by twenty years of conflict, which left tremendous scars on the lives of ordinary people. Many of the recorded songs relate to this period of violence and enabled artists to openly discuss their experiences with conflict. The recorded songs and videos are gathered on the channel www.youtube.com/@omnirecordings and so far attracted over a million viewers.
Back in the Netherlands, we recorded people with a migration background for Wandering Songs. In January 2025, we continued our journey by recording songs in The Gambia. And there’s more to come! Below, you’ll find a selection of the recordings we’ve made so far, starting with a great artist from northern Uganda: the late Opira Morise Kato. Please check our Youtube channel for all the other video’s!
Wandering Songs playlist Opira Morise Kato
Opira sang in the Acholi language and played a traditional Ugandan instrument called the Adungu. He transformed this acoustic instrument into an electric one, using built-in pickups from an old radio, powered by batteries and connected to two Sony HiFi speakers, he was good to go! Sadly, Opira has passed away. We created a tribute video in his honor.
Wandering Songs playlist Ogwang Clipper
Ogwang Clipper played the Nanga, a traditional instrument with seven nylon strings set in a wooden box. He was one of the most experienced and respected Nanga players in northern Uganda, often performing together with his wife, Sabina Lawino. Sadly, he has passed away. These videos serve as a remembrance of his life and music.
Wandering Songs playlist OJ Murugut
This group consists of OJ Murugut on orak (calabash) and lead vocals, Ojwee Nahman on the rigi rigi (tube fiddle) and Olweny Maurice Abitingson on orak, vocals and nanga (also called ’trough zither’, because it resembles a water bowl for cattle). Acholi artists traditionally wear feathers on their head -called ‘kono’- while singing and dancing, drawing attention to their movements.
Wandering Songs playlist Various
Every Ugandan artist or group with only one recorded song is collected in this various artists playlist.
Wandering Songs playlist the Netherlands 2015
Wandering Songs playlist the Netherlands 2023/2025
Wandering Songs playlist The Gambian Recordings 2025
From January 23 to 30, 2025, Karin and Evert traveled through the Gambia with a clear goal: to make as many field recordings of traditional Gambian music as possible in a short period of time. With limited recording equipment, they traveled from Banjul to Janjanbureh, where the traditional music festival Kankurang took place. During their trip, they made eight recordings of three different artists, both in Janjanbureh and in Serekunda. This adventure left them wanting more. Hopefully, they’ll be back soon for a follow-up!
