What is joik?

Joik (also spelled yoik, and also called vuolle, vuelie, luohti, juoiggus, levd, and lu’dd) is a traditional Sámi form of singing and considered to be one of Europe’s oldest musical traditions.

The following information is drawn from Beneath Northern Lights.com:

Originally joiks were used in everyday life. It has not been until recent years that the joik has been adapted so that it is suitable to perform on a stage.

Traditionally, the Sámi would joik impulsively on any occasion. A joik could be a part of telling stories, when alone on the mountain, to the reindeer, or to a beloved one.

For example:

• If you have visitors, and you want to tell a story about someone, you could joik that person – or that event.

• You can joik to the memory of deceased relatives or friends.

• Joik your son to give him good self-esteem, and so that he feels loved and seen.

• Joik a friend whom you are missing.

• Give a joik to someone you are in love with for flirting purposes.