jojk

Jojk, also spelled joik or yoik, is a traditional vocal art of the Sámi people of the Arctic region, including parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. It is among the oldest living musical traditions in Europe and is deeply linked to Sámi identity and memory.

The term jojk/joik has several spellings; the spelling "jojk" is less common but appears in some sources. The practice is primarily vocal and often improvised, with a focus on evoking a person, place, or thing rather than narrating events.

Performance typically occurs a cappella, with a spare, chant-like timbre. Lyrics, when present, name the subject of the piece and are used to evoke characteristics or memories through melody and timbre, rather than detailed storytelling.

Traditionally, a joik is linked to community and personal memory, used in ceremonies, storytelling, and healing. It is often taught within families and passed down through generations.

In the modern era, jojk has seen revival and integration into contemporary music. Sámi and non-Sámi artists collaborate with joik, while discussions about cultural sensitivity and rights accompany its broader exposure.