Joika

Joika is a traditional Sami song. It is a very personal and emotional form of expression, often considered unique to each individual. Joius are not typically sung about specific events or stories but rather evoke feelings, moods, or elements of nature. They can represent anything from a person, animal, or landscape to a feeling or a state of mind. The style of joika varies greatly among individuals and Sami communities, with some joiks being more melodic and others more rhythmic. Historically, joiks were an integral part of Sami culture and spirituality. They were used for storytelling, to connect with the spiritual world, and as a means of preserving Sami traditions and identity. Due to historical suppression, joika has faced challenges, but there has been a significant revival in recent decades. Contemporary Sami artists are reinterpreting and performing joiks, bringing them to new audiences and ensuring their continued existence as a vital part of Sami heritage.