Abstract

Language is the carrier of culture and a repository of the knowledge systems that define a people. Arising from this, the problem of language endangerment is of universal concern.Music is an important functional domain in every language for several reasons. Apart from its emotive value, it isa carrier of critical aspects of ethnic knowledge and a tool for language learning.Consequently, an examination of the utility value of Urhobo music across several social categories is barometric of the vitality of the language. This paper examines theselinkages as critical factors in the discourse of Urhobo language endangerment. This research investigates intergenerational variations in the use of Urhobo music for personal and social entertainment. Six hundred and fifty-seven respondents provide data for the study. Based on the sociolinguistic survey carried out, the findings indicate that Nigerian Pidginand English based music genres are ICT - driven and have made significant inroads into domains hitherto the exclusive preserve of indigenous music.There is a marked generational decline in the preference for, and knowledge about, Urhobo music genres. The finding is another confirmation that the language isendangered.

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