History of Music Industry of SriLanka
Sri Lanka's music industry boasts a rich history, shaped by a blend of ancient traditions, colonial influences, and modern trends. Here's a glimpse into its evolution:
Ancient Roots:
Royal patronage: Kings had their own court musicians who performed "Prashasthi" songs, praising the rulers [Sunday Times, Sri Lanka].
Folklore: Storytelling through music played a vital role in Sri Lankan culture.
Colonial Influences:
Portuguese (16th century): Introduced "cantiga" ballads, ukuleles, guitars, and African influences through "kaffrinha" music [Wikipedia - Music of Sri Lanka].
British (19th century): Sparked interest in Western classical music and piano [Facts and Details].
Birth of Recorded Music:
Radio Ceylon (1925): Became a crucial platform. "Nurthi" (1903), based on North Indian music, is considered the first recorded Sri Lankan album [Sunday Times, Sri Lanka].
Early stars: Performers from the traditional "kolam" drama transitioned into recorded music.
Golden Age of Sinhala Cinema (1940s-1960s):
Film music pioneers: Mohammed Gauss and Premasiri Kemadasa composed memorable soundtracks, shaping "Sinhala music" [Facts and Details].
Legendary singers: Rukmani Devi, known as the "Nightingale of Sri Lanka," rose to fame [Facts and Details].
Modern Era (1970s-present):
Diversification: Pop, rock, and rap gained popularity alongside traditional influences.
Global reach: Artists like Yohani have achieved international recognition.
Challenges and the future:
The Sri Lankan music industry has faced issues like piracy and the dominance of foreign music. However, with the rise of digital platforms and a growing independent music scene, the future looks promising for Sri Lankan artists to keep their unique musical heritage alive.
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