Napo Zhuang minority is also called"Black-clothed Zhuang".It is the most peculiar branch of the Zhuang minority,who call themselves"Min"(agile),"Zhong"(second in seniority)and"ao"(the sound of wailing).Currently,it has about a population of 51,800.Since people of this minority are all dressed in black,they are called"Black-clothed Zhuang".They mainly live in Napo County of Guangxi Province,which is the frontier between China and Vietnam.Folk song of Napo Zhuang minority has been sung for generations.Throughout history,Black-clothed Zhuang still preserve the old-fashioned,intact and colorful ballad until now.Folk song of Napo Zhuang minority is honored as"Rich ore of Guangxi national music"and"living fossil"of folk songs for the Zhuang minority.
Folk song of Napo Zhuang minority has six tone types of"Suimin","Nideya","Lun","Melody of spring cattle","Song of inviting goddess"and"Panrui"based on different pitches,over 160 sets.Typical songs include Hospitality Song,Lunzao,Toasting Song,Songs of Pan,Ancestor Worship Song and so on.Among,"Nideya",means"OK"in the language of Guangxi Napo Zhuang minority.It is a commonly used auxiliary word in folk songs popular in areas where Black-clothed Zhuang live.The melody of"Nideya"is fresh and bright,with distinct artistic charm.It has already become the music label of Zhuang minority.
According to the content,folk songs of Napo Zhuang minority can be divided into narrative songs about myths and legends,biographies,environmental transition,historical events;suffering songs confiding affliction and complaining oppression;husbandry songs reflecting nature and living experiences;chanting songs yearning for good things;etiquette songs about how to treat people;custom songs representing traditional customs;sacrificial songs mourning the death;toasting songs celebrating marriage,children's achievement of the first month,new residence,the elder's birthday;and the most abundant songs are about love.
