parties without being attacked, and initiate peace negotiations between the hostile parties.

Francis Bebey writes about the griot in African Music, A People's Art:With this privilege of being a neutral mediator, griots had the freedom and expectation to criticize and keep in line those with a higher social status. Their professional authority allowed them to speak honestly in public, often addressing nobles, political leaders, and wealthy families. In a way, they were able to be a voice for the marginalize