A Whiskey Shot on the Floor

Weekend customers crowd the huge Los Angeles music store. Suddenly, an entourage enters led by African drummers followed by an African-garbed Nigerian chief walking in front of other Africans. The chief speaks some words in Igbo, opens a fresh bottle of whiskey, spills some on the floor, then pours himself a drink. Customers are fascinated.

What does it mean?

Called a libation ceremony, this ritual is practiced in many African cultures on important occasions and prior to celebrations. In this way, the people give thanks to their ancestors for strength and wisdom in helping to accomplish a new undertaking--a new baby, a new car or the beginning of a new year. They acknowledge their ancestors and ask them to look favorably upon the new venture.

This particular occasion celebrated the release of new recordings by three African artists: Stephan Osita Osadebi of Nigeria, Prince Eyango from Cameroon and Ricardo Lemvo of Zaire. While performing the libation ritual, the celebrants asked their ancestors to bless the music so that non-Africans as well as Africans would enjoy and appreciate the creative talents of the musicians. In addition to the spilling whiskey, the chief blessed a kola nut, cut it up and dipped a piece into very hot pepper before chewing it. Afterward, the customers eagerly lined up to taste the nut with pepper and drink a small amount of whiskey before buying their CDs.