His single Yeke Yeke was the first African song to pass a million in sales, but it’s meaning was best understood in Guinea, home of the griot and kora star.
Music
Arts and Culture Uganda’s musicians are fighting COVID-19 – why government should work with them
Uganda’s COVID-19 task force would do well to embrace pop music in its public health communications.
Arts and Culture Dance softly and carry a big voice: understanding Joseph Shabalala
Joseph Shabalala would grow world famous for his music. But it is shaped by the spiritual aspects of his life as much as it is by the hardships of black life – and by his dreams.
Arts and Culture Of strong winds, heavy hearts and Joseph Shabalala telling the South African story
The passing of music giant Joseph Shabalala rests heavy on South African hearts – he told the story of black migrants within the apartheid system in a way no-one else did – and achieved global fame.
Africans rising Angélique Kidjo wins fourth Grammy for Best World Music Album
Beninese singer-songwriter, actress, and activist Angélique Kidjo won her fourth Grammy at the 62nd GRAMMY Awards for her album ‘Celia’. The matriarch passed the baton in her acceptance speech saying, “The new generation of artists coming from Africa are going to take you by storm, and the time has come.”
Arts and Culture Meet Ofentse Pitse, the first black South African women to own and conduct an all-black orchestra
27-year-old Ofentse Pitse is the first black South African woman to conduct and own an all-black orchestra. Her 40-piece symphony orchestra contributes to shedding light on African composers and propelling young black youth to excellence.
Arts and Culture Destination Festivals: Tanzania’s Ongala Music Festival – “the festival of conscience”
The second annual Ongala Music Festival took place on August 23 to 25 in Bagamoyo, Tanzania. The festival named after Tanzanian musician Remmy Ongala highlights musical talents and creative collaborations in East Africa.
Arts and Culture Destination Festivals: Bayimba International Festival of the Arts in Uganda
Uganda boasts of a thriving music scene, and the multidisciplinary Bayimba International Festival of the Arts recently held in Lunkulu Island serves to bolster the various art forms. The four-day event has become an important platform for the consumption, and authentic experience of various exciting artistic acts.
Arts and Culture Johnny Clegg: South Africa’s universal man of uncommon passion
Johnny Clegg was a prophet, even if the ideal future he prophesied has not yet come to pass.