Gokh-Bi System is a group of talented, young musicians from Dakar, whose music combines ancient and contemporary African and American traditions. They blend the beautiful three-string ekonting of southern Senegal with delicate, soulful vocals, and then add their unique, multi-language rhythm poetry to the mix.

Gokh-Bi System includes members of three different ethnic groups: the Jola, the Serer, and the Wolof peoples. Their songs address issues from personal love and loss to more community-oriented issues such as race, global politics, and positive self-image. Even the group's name, Gokh-Bi System, which means "neighborhood system," speaks to their commitment and sense of responsibility in understanding both their community and the importance of international, cross-cultural connections.

The following are examples of Gokh-Bi System lyrics:

Lyrics translated from Wolof to English by Boubacar Diaite and Amadou Talla:

GANGSTAR

Gangsters!!! Gangsters!!!

We reject violence

"Viva la vida none-violencia."

We Gokh-Bi System are fighting violence,

With the sound of Farafina.

Gokh-Bi System is rocking,

Imposing the Ekontine-Rap to the world.

Serere, Diolas and Americans appreciate it.

Rap should be used for peace,

And against violence.

"Stop the murder,

You're killing one another.

Father, Mother, Baby, Brother, and Sister, listen together.

Now the world is a big ocean where the biggest fishes eat the smallest one."

XAESAL

(SKIN BLEACHING)

CHORUS:

Thinking of my love,

Thinking of my Dad,

Thinking of my Mom.

Here I come to praise my color.

Bleaching your skin won’t make you look prettier.

Women of Dakar,

I chant the divine beauty of your dark skin.

CHORUS:

Eh You!!!

Sister!! Sister!! Stay the way you are,

Don't bleach your skin.

The brother next door likes you just the way you are.

And no matter what you do to your skin,

You will always be black.

Experience Gokh-Bi System in a free performance on Tuesday, October 10 at 7pm. For more information, call 545-5177. Augusta Savage Gallery is located in New Africa House near the University Health Services. It is accessible to the physically challenged with an entrance at the rear of the building. Gallery Hours: Monday and Tuesday 1 to 7, Wednesday through Friday 1 to 5. This program is funded in part by the University Arts Council.