What is "dhaanto"

Dhaanto is a style of traditional Somali music and folk dance. It is specific to certain Somali-speaking areas in the Horn region. The dance-song was revived during the Dervish period in the early 20th century, when it was used to raise the 'spirts' of soldiers and was often sung on horseback. Additionally, the genre was employed in Islamic poetry. Modern exponents of the dhaanto style include the Somali singer-songwriter Aar Maanta.

Famous dhaanto artists include. Ahmed Budal, Ali Dhaanto, Bashir Carab, Nuur Araale, Kafeya Sarhay Isaaq, Hodon Ma'allin, Bashir Jaawi and Abdi Dhaanto, and more.