The Music of Nkashi: Crafting the Sound of the Okavango | Documentary BTS | National Geographic

Key Concepts

• Kashi Classic/Race for the Kabango: An annual race in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, featuring traditional makoro (dugout canoes).
• Impact Story Lab (National Geographic Society): A division focused on creating impactful films.
• Authenticity in Filmmaking: The importance of incorporating local talent and cultural understanding in film production, particularly music.
• Collaborative Composition: The process of creating music for film through a fusion of traditional sounds and diverse creative input.
• Emotional Resonance of Music: The role of music in conveying emotions and the spirit of a film beyond visual storytelling.
• Pan-African Collaboration: The potential for increased collaboration amongst African creatives and organizations.

The Creation of Music for “Kashi Race for the Kabango”

This film, produced by National Geographic Society’s Impact Story Lab in collaboration with Persona Filmmakers, documents the annual Kashi Classic race in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. A central focus of the production was ensuring the music authentically reflected the culture and environment of the Delta. Producer Tylan Charles highlights this commitment, explaining the collaboration with local musician Ranga, known as Ketto, as a key step in achieving this goal.

Collaboration and Cultural Immersion

The musical journey began during the Kashi Classic Moro race in Suranga, where the production team met Ketto. The team comprised individuals from various African nations and beyond, fostering a “fusion of tradition, sounds and creativity levels.” Crucially, the team expanded to include Mr. Suranga and Prince, both from Botswana, to ensure deep cultural understanding. Charles emphasizes that including individuals who understand the “spiritual element, the cultural elements, even the commercial elements” of the region is vital for a truly brilliant final product. The addition of these local composers facilitated the creation of two tracks within just three days.

Finding Inspiration in the Environment

The creative process was deeply rooted in the natural environment of Botswana. Ketto describes being inspired by the sounds of the Delta – “Bana,” birdsong, and the inherent rhythms of nature. He notes the ability to “hear rhythmics” and “feel the rhythm in the nature,” illustrating the direct connection between the environment and the musical composition. This immersion in the surroundings was a key element in shaping the music’s character.

The Composition Process: From Blank Page to Emotional Resonance

The composition process is described as starting with a “blank page” – a space of pure imagination. The team would improvise and play, reacting to the film footage to determine what resonated and what didn’t. The music’s purpose, as stated, is to “tell something that is not told with words or with images,” acting as the “spirit of the film.” Specifically, the team focused on composing the outro, aiming to evoke a sense of “pride,” acknowledging the inherent “sadness” within the story while prioritizing a feeling of accomplishment. The process involved listening to existing tracks, arranging voices, and integrating various instruments.

Emotional Impact and Pan-African Potential

Participants express a profound sense of gratitude and peace resulting from the collaborative experience. The key emotion the music aims to convey is “hope.” Charles frames the project as a “fantastic demonstration of how projects of National Geographic Society can work together on the continent of Africa,” emphasizing the potential for increased collaboration amongst African creatives and organizations to “create opportunities and break down the barriers to entry.” He believes the music will allow viewers to “feel that the people who made the music were actually one with the environment and what was going on.”

Technical Aspects & Terminology

• Makoro: A traditional dugout canoe used for navigating the Okavango Delta.
• Okavango Delta: A vast inland delta in Botswana, known for its unique ecosystem and cultural significance.
• Outro: The concluding section of a film or song.
• Bana: (Contextually) Likely refers to the sounds of the Delta, potentially specific animal calls or natural sounds.

Conclusion

The creation of the music for “Kashi Race for the Kabango” exemplifies the power of authentic collaboration and cultural immersion in filmmaking. By prioritizing local talent, drawing inspiration from the environment, and focusing on emotional resonance, the production team crafted a soundtrack that not only complements the film but also embodies the spirit of Botswana and the Okavango Delta. The project serves as a model for future collaborations within Africa, highlighting the potential for increased opportunities and the breaking down of barriers for African creatives.