Both males and females use singing as a way to compete. Poems (sung solely by the males) are often improvised as a way to demonstrate verbal fluidity. Females often sing about their beauty, husbands and children. Men may sing of their cattle and bravery. It is not considered bragging to boast of one’s achievements.  Singers will also praise other individuals or groups. Bonds are strong between friends and relatives. Building confidence in others is considered an essential part of group singing.

Songs may help alter moods. Women sing while milking to calm a cow. Familiar lullabies put children to sleep. Prayers offered to god are presented through song. Women unable to produce children will join in a prayer group called alamal lookituak which gathers one day in every three to five years to sing prayers as a group. Child bearing is among the highest pressures put upon a female. Each household within hundreds of miles must send female representatives to attend. They will either seek or offer support.

The introduction of Christianity within the Maasai community brought with it western and Swahili hymns (listen to a sample here). Many were translated into the Maa language or composed as original songs taken from bible verses and biblical theology. Such songs may incorporate instruments such as animal-skin drums, metallic objects, guitars, bass guitars and keyboards. Tempo and structure often differ from the traditional format as well. The verse-chorus-verse pattern is common as is call-and-response.

Political songs are another form of nontraditional Maasai music. These might be sung by any number of soloists or groups to campaign in Maasai communities for political candidates. Rhythmic and melodic structures follow closely to traditional patterns.  Songs are sung in the Maa language and composed by individuals within the community. Songs composed in Swahili by non-Maasai are performed in Swahili. One example is a group of Maasai women in Kenya who are hired to sing at campaign rallies for political candidates. Some have performed during an election for multiple political parties.

Many Christian converts will not sing traditional songs. It is seen as representing 'old ways.' Milking songs and lullabies predominantly retain a place among both Christians and traditionalists. However, many non-Christians will sing both traditional songs and hymns. Many schools teach Christian hymns and Swahili songs to students.The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, among other radio stations in East Africa, broadcast a daily program in Maa. Maasai disc jockeys play a host of Maasai music on the Voice of Kenya. This evening program has become a popular way to spread news, information and greetings among the Maasai community. It is a good source for both contemporary and traditional music.

Tourism has brought with it various misconceptions regarding Maasai music and culture. Maasai regularly perform songs in hotel lobbies and restaurants for tourists. To make their performances more entertaining, members will add dances and instruments. This is ironically labeled as ‘authentic.’