Between text and texture: An exploration of the sociostylistic imports in selected songs of Ololade Asake
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Date
2024
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Abstract
It is no doubt that aside the peculiarity of melody and sound instruments in music, the formal and linguistic aesthetics of music are also associated to its markedness as a genre of spoken discourse. Apart from this, the artistic deployment of both text and texture in lyrical components creates a musical brand. The aim of this study is to examine the socio-stylistic imports in selected songs of Ololade Asake so as to evaluate how the artistes’ linguistic identity has contributed to his entertainment brand. To achieve the aim of the study, five purposively selected songs of Olalade Asake were analysed using a blend of theoretical and conceptual approaches of Tajfel and Turner (1986); Social Identity Theory and Critical Stylistics of Jeffries (2010). From the data analysis, it has been found that Asake employs clear narrative structure, figurative languages and repetitive phrases, which enhance musicality as well as the poetic quality in the songs, create vivid and evocative images in the listeners’ minds, emphasise the artiste’s themes, and enable the creation of coherent and engaging lyrics. Asake also pragmatically illustrates thematic issues of social concern so as to create a positive and uplifting atmosphere for listeners. In conclusion, while the artistic aesthetics of Asake’s songs conform to entertainment, a closer look at the underlying lyrical texts and textures situates Asake’s music within the purview of social advocacy.