Hoodoo Heritage Month
Buzzard Lope - Throw me anywhere Lord
As we are on the 7th day of Hoodoo heritage month, celebrating the beauty, culture and history of Hoodoo, one of my favorite old spiritual songs “Throw me anywhere Lord”. I remember hearing this song in my Great Grandmothers kitchen , her singing it at the top of her lungs, cooking, cleaning and dancing with the windows open. Whenever she was stressed, uneasy, uncertain, worried… she played and sang this song. Often times, during this song, you see people performing the “Ring Shout”. Today we are going to embark on a walk down history lane, and celebrate the culture, the history and the celebration of Hoodoo history month!
The Ring Shout: What is it?
The Ring Shout is a traditional African American dance and religious ritual that has its roots in West African cultural practices. It is characterized by its circular formation, rhythmic movement, and the integration of singing, clapping, and sometimes the use of traditional musical instruments. The Ring Shout is recognized not only for its artistic expression but also for its profound spiritual significance and connection to African heritage. African Roots: The Ring Shout has its origins in the spiritual dances of West African ethnic groups, such as the Ewe and the Akan. These dances were integral to religious ceremonies, community celebrations, and communal storytelling. Participants often engaged in circular movements that represented unity and collective identity, invoking spiritual forces and honoring ancestors. Adaptation in America: When enslaved Africans arrived in the Americas, they brought these ceremonial practices with them. However, the brutal realities of slavery forced enslaved individuals to adapt their cultural expressions to new contexts. The Ring Shout emerged as a distinct form of spiritual worship among enslaved African Americans, particularly in the Southern United States.
Performed in a circular formation, the Ring Shout involves participants moving counterclockwise, often singing, clapping, and stomping in syncopated rhythms. This communal movement fosters a deep sense of connection among participants, who collectively invoke spiritual energies, celebrate life’s milestones, and pay homage to their ancestors.
It is important to note that the Ring Shout often transcended mere dance; it was a sacred space where participants could communicate with the Divine, ask for blessings, and share the struggles and triumphs of their community. For those enslaved in plantation society, engaging in a Ring Shout was also a subtle act of resistance, a way to assert their humanity and spiritual power in a world that sought to dehumanize them.
"Buzzard Lope: Throw Me Anywhere, Lord"
One of the most notable songs associated with the Ring Shout is “Buzzard Lope: Throw Me Anywhere, Lord.” This song encapsulates the themes of longing, resilience, and spiritual yearning that permeate the African American experience. Buzzard Lope serves not only as a joyous expression of spiritual faith but also as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured throughout history.
While the precise origins of “Buzzard Lope” are somewhat obscure, it's believed to have emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century, resonating with the emotional landscape of a time marked by profound change and uncertainty. The lyrics evoke a sense of humility and surrender to a higher power, expressing a willingness to be led wherever the Lord sees fit even in the face of suffering. The term “Buzzard” has been interpreted in various ways; some see it as a reflection of the scavenger bird’s ability to thrive even in harsh conditions, serving as a metaphor for resilience. Coupled with the spirit of the Ring Shout, which celebrates life despite adversity, “Throw Me Anywhere, Lord” becomes a powerful mantra of faith, freedom, and the search for meaning.
The beauty of the Ring Shout and its associated songs like “Buzzard Lope” lies in their ability to capture the essence of the African American spiritual experience. They encapsulate feelings of love, pain, hope, and resilience—emotions that have shaped the Black community across generations.
The rhythmic movements of the Ring Shout are not just an artistic expression; they create a sonic and kinetic experience that transports participants into a trance-like state, cultivating a deep spiritual connection. This connection is often mirrored in the songs sung during the dance, which weave together personal and collective narratives, allowing performers to share their burdens and joys.
In contemporary times, the Ring Shout and songs like “Buzzard Lope” have experienced a revival as cultural organizations, churches, and artists seek to preserve and celebrate their heritage. Through workshops, performances, and community gatherings, the practice of the Ring Shout continues to foster connection and empowerment, serving as a reminder of the endurance and strength found within the African American community.
Buzzard Lope Lyrics
Chorus:
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Just let me be in Your care,
Throw me anywhere, Lord.
Verse:
I’ve been tossed and I’ve been turned,
I’ve been cast down, I’ve been burned,
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Just let me be in Your care.
Chorus:
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Just let me be in Your care,
Throw me anywhere, Lord.
Verse:
When the trials all around,
And I feel I’m going down,
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Just let me be in Your care.
Chorus:
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Throw me anywhere, Lord,
Just let me be in Your care,
Throw me anywhere, Lord.
The Ring Shout and “Buzzard Lope: Throw Me Anywhere, Lord” offer an enchanting glimpse into the history of African American spirituality, resilience, and cultural richness. They invite us to reflect on the depth of our shared human experience through the lens of joy and struggle. As we continue to educate ourselves and celebrate these traditions, we honor the legacy of those who came before us, reaffirming the beauty and power of our collective cultural heritage.
As we step into these rhythms of history, let us embrace the lessons embedded in these practices and songs and strive to continue their legacy for future generations. Stay tuned for more insights into the fascinating world of Hoodoo and its profound impact on our culture! Take a moment with the link below. Turn the volume up, put your headphones on close your eyes and see how the sounds, tunes and spirit just take of over!
Happy Hoodoo Heritage Month Loves
B🐝