What Is Rake-and-Scrape Music and Its History?

By Sail Abacos, Editorial Team

Reviewed by Captain Ronald Rolle

Rake-and-scrape emerged in the late nineteenth century on the Out Islands of the Bahamas, particularly Cat Island, during family celebrations, weddings, and communal gatherings. Early references from the 1860s and 1870s note the use of rasp and saw with drums at Nassau wedding celebrations.

The distinctive sound comes from its unusual instruments. A carpenter's saw bent and scraped with a screwdriver, nail, or knife produces a rhythmic rasping tone that gives the genre its name. This improvised percussion exemplifies the resourcefulness of island musicians.

The goombay drum provides the rhythmic foundation. Made from goatskin stretched over a wooden barrel and heated over fire for proper toning, these drums connect directly to African musical traditions. The name goombay likely derives from the Bantu word gumba, meaning rhythm or drum.

European influence arrives through the diatonic accordion, introduced during the colonial era and now the melodic backbone of rake-and-scrape. A homemade bass crafted from a washtub with a string attached to a three-foot stick, plus maracas and rhythm guitars, complete the typical ensemble.

Rake-and-scrape nearly disappeared in the 1940s when tourist marketing favored more polished entertainment. A gradual revival began in 1969 alongside the push for national independence, as Bahamians reclaimed traditional culture.

Today, rake-and-scrape enjoys renewed appreciation as an authentic expression of Bahamian heritage. Festivals, cultural events, and dedicated musicians ensure this unique sound continues entertaining new generations.

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