My “To Hear Live” List

Posted on April 21, 2013 by Diana Thompson

In honor of Bi Kidude, join me in creating your own personal “to hear live” list focusing on elders who you haven’t heard in live before, before they pass from this life.
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Oliver Mtukudzi April-May 2013 USA-Canada Tour Dates

Posted on March 31, 2013 by Diana Thompson

Come see this living legend as he tours the U.S. and Canada this spring: California, Ohio, New York, Illinois, and more locations. more →

Country: Zimbabwe
Culture: Korekore
Language: Shona
Style: Tuku Music!

From Tumblr with Love

Posted on June 30, 2012 by Diana Thompson

Yes, it’s been a bit since I published an entry here at African Music Diary. While partly due to demands in other areas of life, I’ve also been spending time, as I get some, over at Tumblr. While you can see the latest of the AMD Tumblr feed at the .com flavor of AMD, I want to share with you a few new favorites I’ve found on Tumblr. more →

Early Music of a Great African Salsero

Posted on April 15, 2012 by Diana Thompson

While enjoying DJ Balele’s set, some tunes familiar and some new to me, I was struck in particular with two by Gnonnas Pedro. more →

Country: Benin
Culture: Ewe, Fon, Yoruba
Language: Adja, English, Fon, French, Mined, Spanish, Yoruba
Style: Agbadja, Highlife, Juju, Salsa

Solomon Linda, Mbube, and South African A Cappella

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Diana Thompson

A search for music by Miriam Makeba turns up a classic source by a cappella innovator Solomon Linda. more →

Country: South Africa
Culture: Zulu
Language: Zulu
Style: Isicathamiya, Mbube

An African at Morehouse College

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Diana Thompson

Before “Planet Drum,” before “Drums of Passion,” Babatunde Olatunji attended Morehouse College and collaborated with the Glee Club’s director on Betelehemu. more →