Apala
Apala is a Nigerian musical style rooted in Yoruba Islamic tradition, closely related to juju. It is characterized by a slow to moderate tempo, percussion (morning bell/clave), declamatory vocals in Yoruba, and religious lyrics. The term is believed to derive from the onomatopoeic apa-la! used to call believers to prayer.
The founding figure is Akin Olagunju (Sunny Adé), and masters of apala include Isia Calwadé, Abiodun Alemu, and later Wasiu Ayinde Balogun, known as K1 DeLuxe. Apala is often performed during Islamic festivals and ceremonies in Nigeria.
