World Music: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Edith Piaf
Edith Piaf is considered by many to be the greatest French singer of all time. Edith Piaf's tragic life is shrouded in mystery and legend.
Edith Piaf is considered by many to be the greatest French singer of all time. Edith Piaf's tragic life is shrouded in mystery and legend.
Music Festival Packing List
New to music festivals? Been going to them for awhile, but still think your stay could be more comfortable? Use this handy checklist to remind yourself of things you need to make your music festival experience the best it can be.
New to music festivals? Been going to them for awhile, but still think your stay could be more comfortable? Use this handy checklist to remind yourself of things you need to make your music festival experience the best it can be.
Bob Marley
Bob Marley was undoubtedly the most influential Jamaican musician of all time. Bob Marley's popularity was widespread, and continues to be so, 25 years after his death. Bob Marley's real name was Robert Nesta Marley.
Bob Marley was undoubtedly the most influential Jamaican musician of all time. Bob Marley's popularity was widespread, and continues to be so, 25 years after his death. Bob Marley's real name was Robert Nesta Marley.
Reggae Music 101
Reggae music is perhaps one of the best-known genres of world music, and was popularized in the United States in the 1960s by artists such as Bob Marley.
Reggae music is perhaps one of the best-known genres of world music, and was popularized in the United States in the 1960s by artists such as Bob Marley.
Rai Music 101
Rai Music is a popular form of world music from Algeria. Rai music sounds much like pop music, but with Arabic and French musical influences.
Rai Music is a popular form of world music from Algeria. Rai music sounds much like pop music, but with Arabic and French musical influences.
Bob Marley CDs
Every ska, rocksteady and reggae fan has at least one Bob Marley CD on their shelf, but if you're new to the genre, you might be confused as to where to start. These essential albums will help you build your Bob Marley library.
Every ska, rocksteady and reggae fan has at least one Bob Marley CD on their shelf, but if you're new to the genre, you might be confused as to where to start. These essential albums will help you build your Bob Marley library.
Ska Music 101
Ska music is by far one of the most popular genres of world music. Ska music has been through several incarnations, from traditional Jamaican ska to second-wave two-tone ska and finally American third-wave ska, which fused ska and punk music.
Ska music is by far one of the most popular genres of world music. Ska music has been through several incarnations, from traditional Jamaican ska to second-wave two-tone ska and finally American third-wave ska, which fused ska and punk music.
Have Fun at a Music Fest
There are few better ways to experience live music than through a music festival. Here are some tips to make your music festival experience the best it can be.
There are few better ways to experience live music than through a music festival. Here are some tips to make your music festival experience the best it can be.
Irish Music Starter CDs
Irish music is, by far, one of the most popular forms of World Music in America. While it gained early success during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 60s, it shot to major popularity with the success of the Broadway shows Riverdance and Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance.
Irish music is, by far, one of the most popular forms of World Music in America. While it gained early success during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 60s, it shot to major popularity with the success of the Broadway shows Riverdance and Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance.
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a Hawaiian ukulele player who burst onto the international world music scene with his beautiful medley of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"/"What A Wonderful World". Israel Kamakawiwo'ole died in 1997 at age 38.
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a Hawaiian ukulele player who burst onto the international world music scene with his beautiful medley of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"/"What A Wonderful World". Israel Kamakawiwo'ole died in 1997 at age 38.
Zydeco Music 101
Zydeco music, and its close relative, Cajun music, is one of the most exciting and vibrant genres of world music in the world. It is the bluesy, highly syncopated music of the French speaking Creole people of Southwest Louisiana.
Zydeco music, and its close relative, Cajun music, is one of the most exciting and vibrant genres of world music in the world. It is the bluesy, highly syncopated music of the French speaking Creole people of Southwest Louisiana.
Calypso Music 101
Calypso music is a genre of Caribbean music native to the island of Trinidad. Calypso music, like most genres of Caribbean music, is heavily rhythmic and has clever, catchy melodies and lyrics. Calypso music was made popular in the United States by Harry Belafonte.
Calypso music is a genre of Caribbean music native to the island of Trinidad. Calypso music, like most genres of Caribbean music, is heavily rhythmic and has clever, catchy melodies and lyrics. Calypso music was made popular in the United States by Harry Belafonte.
Manu Chao
Manu Chao is one of the world's hippest and most popular musicians. His experimentation with world music, combined with rock and electronica, has made the genre cool again.
Manu Chao is one of the world's hippest and most popular musicians. His experimentation with world music, combined with rock and electronica, has made the genre cool again.
French Language Music
Love the French language and want to discover some more music in French? Look no further, these ten french language cds will get your collection started nicely!
Love the French language and want to discover some more music in French? Look no further, these ten french language cds will get your collection started nicely!
If You Like Bob Marley...
If you like the reggae music stylings of Bob Marley, check out some of these related reggae music artists. This list includes Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh, who were part of The Wailers, Bob Marley's early rocksteady and reggae band, as well as artists like The Mighty Diamonds, Burning Spear and Toots and the Maytals.
If you like the reggae music stylings of Bob Marley, check out some of these related reggae music artists. This list includes Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh, who were part of The Wailers, Bob Marley's early rocksteady and reggae band, as well as artists like The Mighty Diamonds, Burning Spear and Toots and the Maytals.
Chutney Music 101
Chutney music is a style of music that derives from a combination of calypso and soca music and Indian music. It was created by Indians in Trinadad and Tobago and is one of the world's most popular genres of music.
Chutney music is a style of music that derives from a combination of calypso and soca music and Indian music. It was created by Indians in Trinadad and Tobago and is one of the world's most popular genres of music.
Top 10 African CDs of 2007
The best African music released in 2007.
The best African music released in 2007.
GrassRoots Festival
The Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance, or GrassRoots for short, is one of the most established world music camping festivals in the Northeast. Annually, they present over 60 bands on four stages for four days.
The Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance, or GrassRoots for short, is one of the most established world music camping festivals in the Northeast. Annually, they present over 60 bands on four stages for four days.
World Music for Weddings
World music fans often find themselves in a bit of a jam when they're planning the music for their wedding - they want to express their unique taste in music, but also want to keep the music sweet and romantic. These ten songs will surely add a touch of romance, as well as some fabulous global flavor, to your wedding.
World music fans often find themselves in a bit of a jam when they're planning the music for their wedding - they want to express their unique taste in music, but also want to keep the music sweet and romantic. These ten songs will surely add a touch of romance, as well as some fabulous global flavor, to your wedding.
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar 101
Hawaiian slack key guitar is one of the most interesting forms of indigenous American folk music. Hawaiian slack key guitar is characterized by cross-tuning of the guitar strings and a distinctive bluesy sound created by highly embellished finger-picking.
Hawaiian slack key guitar is one of the most interesting forms of indigenous American folk music. Hawaiian slack key guitar is characterized by cross-tuning of the guitar strings and a distinctive bluesy sound created by highly embellished finger-picking.
If You Like Enya
If you like Irish New Age Singer Enya, you might also like Loreena McKennitt, Sissel, Enigma and Maire Brennan, as well as some of these other New Age artists.
If you like Irish New Age Singer Enya, you might also like Loreena McKennitt, Sissel, Enigma and Maire Brennan, as well as some of these other New Age artists.
Classical Indian Music 101
The two main genres of classical Indian music are Carnatic music, from Southern India, and Hindustani music, from Northern India. Both use systems of ragas and talas to create a sound that is quite different from western music.
The two main genres of classical Indian music are Carnatic music, from Southern India, and Hindustani music, from Northern India. Both use systems of ragas and talas to create a sound that is quite different from western music.
African Music Starter CDs
These CDs will make a great beginning to your African music collection. They represent a wide variety of styles and genres and will be just the thing you need to get you started.
These CDs will make a great beginning to your African music collection. They represent a wide variety of styles and genres and will be just the thing you need to get you started.
Soca Music 101
Soca music is a popular form of Caribbean music that comes out of the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a blend of traditional Trinidadian Calypso and Indian rhythms.
Soca music is a popular form of Caribbean music that comes out of the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a blend of traditional Trinidadian Calypso and Indian rhythms.
World Music Albums for Kids
Tired of the same old children's music albums? Check out some of these unique world music albums that are either made for children or are appropriate for children. Expose your kids to new cultures with world music!
Tired of the same old children's music albums? Check out some of these unique world music albums that are either made for children or are appropriate for children. Expose your kids to new cultures with world music!
Au Clair de la Lune
Au Clair de la Lune is an early French folksong, which dates back to at least the mid-18th century. The earliest known recording of the human voice is of an unknown woman singing Au Clair de la Lune.
Au Clair de la Lune is an early French folksong, which dates back to at least the mid-18th century. The earliest known recording of the human voice is of an unknown woman singing Au Clair de la Lune.
2008 World Music Grammy Wins
The 2008 Grammy Award Winners in the world music categories include the Soweto Gospel Choir, Angelique Kidjo, Terrance Simien, Jimmy Sturr and Stephen Marley.
The 2008 Grammy Award Winners in the world music categories include the Soweto Gospel Choir, Angelique Kidjo, Terrance Simien, Jimmy Sturr and Stephen Marley.
What is World Music?
What exactly does the phrase "world music" mean?
What exactly does the phrase "world music" mean?
Klezmer Music 101
Klezmer music is the traditional secular music of Ashkenazi and Hasidic Jews. It is characterized by use of the accordion, fiddle and clarinet and is often played at Jewish weddings.
Klezmer music is the traditional secular music of Ashkenazi and Hasidic Jews. It is characterized by use of the accordion, fiddle and clarinet and is often played at Jewish weddings.
Fiddle
The fiddle is by far one of the most popular instruments in ethnic music throughout the world. The fiddle's portability and small size, as well as its voice-like sound, has made it travel throughout the world. Fiddle music is, almost always, music for dancing.
The fiddle is by far one of the most popular instruments in ethnic music throughout the world. The fiddle's portability and small size, as well as its voice-like sound, has made it travel throughout the world. Fiddle music is, almost always, music for dancing.
Accordion
The accordion is one of the best-known world music instruments, and people tend to love it or hate it. Learn more about the history of accordions, how accordions work and what genres of music feature the accordion.
The accordion is one of the best-known world music instruments, and people tend to love it or hate it. Learn more about the history of accordions, how accordions work and what genres of music feature the accordion.
Books About Reggae
The best books about reggae and Jamaican music. From biographies to cultural studies, coffee table books to collections of essays, these books cover everything the avid reggae fan needs to know about the genre and its history.
The best books about reggae and Jamaican music. From biographies to cultural studies, coffee table books to collections of essays, these books cover everything the avid reggae fan needs to know about the genre and its history.
Organizing World Music CDs
Your collection of world music cds might get a bit unwieldy occasionally. Here are some methods for organizing and maintaining a large world music cd collection.
Your collection of world music cds might get a bit unwieldy occasionally. Here are some methods for organizing and maintaining a large world music cd collection.
Fela Kuti
Fela Kuti was a pioneering world musician who played Afrobeat music, a blend of American jazz, funk and pop with West African Highlife Music. Fela Kuti was also a major political activist who became a hero of the Black Power movement. Fela Kuti died of AIDS in 1997.
Fela Kuti was a pioneering world musician who played Afrobeat music, a blend of American jazz, funk and pop with West African Highlife Music. Fela Kuti was also a major political activist who became a hero of the Black Power movement. Fela Kuti died of AIDS in 1997.
Jamaican Mento Music 101
Mento is the early "country" folk music of Jamaica, characterized by folk instruments, a reggae backbeat, and occasionally bawdy lyrics.
Mento is the early "country" folk music of Jamaica, characterized by folk instruments, a reggae backbeat, and occasionally bawdy lyrics.
Enya
Enya is perhaps one of the best-known world musicians, gaining popularity with her Celtic family band, Clannad, in the 1980s, and later going on to great success as a solo artist. Enya is the best-selling artist from the Republic of Ireland.
Enya is perhaps one of the best-known world musicians, gaining popularity with her Celtic family band, Clannad, in the 1980s, and later going on to great success as a solo artist. Enya is the best-selling artist from the Republic of Ireland.
Kora
A kora is a 21-stringed harp made from a gourd and popular in West Africa
A kora is a 21-stringed harp made from a gourd and popular in West Africa
Lee "Scratch" Perry
Lee "Scratch" Perry was one of the most influential producers and musicians in the history of reggae and ska music. He produced albums by Bob Marley and the Wailers, among others, and is credited with essentially inventing the rhythms that became known as reggae and dub.
Lee "Scratch" Perry was one of the most influential producers and musicians in the history of reggae and ska music. He produced albums by Bob Marley and the Wailers, among others, and is credited with essentially inventing the rhythms that became known as reggae and dub.
Trad Cajun Music Starter CDs
In order to truly understand Cajun music, it's best to listen to some of the trailblazers of the genre. Here are ten great Cajun cds to get you started.
In order to truly understand Cajun music, it's best to listen to some of the trailblazers of the genre. Here are ten great Cajun cds to get you started.
Putumayo Presents Paris
Putumayo Presents Paris is a new collection from Putumayo World Music highlighting some of the greatest songs of the nouvelle scene of Parisian chanson. The compilation includes songs from Paris Combo, Coralie Clement, Carla Bruni and Karpatt.
Putumayo Presents Paris is a new collection from Putumayo World Music highlighting some of the greatest songs of the nouvelle scene of Parisian chanson. The compilation includes songs from Paris Combo, Coralie Clement, Carla Bruni and Karpatt.
Fado Music 101
Fado music is the traditional urban folk music of Portugal. Portuguese fado music is known for its sad, mournful songs and powerful performances.
Fado music is the traditional urban folk music of Portugal. Portuguese fado music is known for its sad, mournful songs and powerful performances.
Cesaria Evora
Cesaria Evora is a singer from the Cape Verde islands known for her soulful interpretation of morna songs.
Cesaria Evora is a singer from the Cape Verde islands known for her soulful interpretation of morna songs.
Difference: Cajun and Zydeco
The difference between Cajun Music and Zydeco is not solely an issue of race, it's a difference of influences. Embrace the differences between these two genres of Louisiana music.
The difference between Cajun Music and Zydeco is not solely an issue of race, it's a difference of influences. Embrace the differences between these two genres of Louisiana music.
S. Raman: Music For Crocodiles
Susheela Raman's latest CD, Music For Crocodiles, deftly blends modern jazz, classical Indian music and pop into a cool and highly listenable album that fans of jazz-pop chanteuses like Norah Jones and Alicia Keys, as well as world music fans, will enjoy.
Susheela Raman's latest CD, Music For Crocodiles, deftly blends modern jazz, classical Indian music and pop into a cool and highly listenable album that fans of jazz-pop chanteuses like Norah Jones and Alicia Keys, as well as world music fans, will enjoy.
World Music Grammy Nominees 08
2008 Grammy Awards Nominees in the World Music Categories, including the best traditional world music category, the best contemporary world music category, and the best reggae category.
2008 Grammy Awards Nominees in the World Music Categories, including the best traditional world music category, the best contemporary world music category, and the best reggae category.
Jewish Reggae CDs
With the popularity of Matisyahu, a Hasidic reggae rapper, interest is growing in other Jewish Reggae music. Check out some of these great artists who are incorporating Jewish traditions with Reggae.
With the popularity of Matisyahu, a Hasidic reggae rapper, interest is growing in other Jewish Reggae music. Check out some of these great artists who are incorporating Jewish traditions with Reggae.
World Music Myths
World Music fans are all hippies. World Music isn't sexy. World Music is weird and hard to listen to. World Music is all in foreign languages. Sound familiar? Time to debunk world music myths!
World Music fans are all hippies. World Music isn't sexy. World Music is weird and hard to listen to. World Music is all in foreign languages. Sound familiar? Time to debunk world music myths!
Banjo
The banjo is considered by some to be the only uniquely american musical instrument. Banjoes are descendants of African instruments, brought to America by slaves.
The banjo is considered by some to be the only uniquely american musical instrument. Banjoes are descendants of African instruments, brought to America by slaves.
Shakori Hills GrassRoots
The Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance is a music festival that takes place twice a year in Silk Hope, North Carolina, near Chapel Hill. They showcase a wide variety of music, including World Music, folk music, blues and rock.
The Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance is a music festival that takes place twice a year in Silk Hope, North Carolina, near Chapel Hill. They showcase a wide variety of music, including World Music, folk music, blues and rock.
L. McKennitt - An Ancient Muse
Loreena McKennitt's 2006 album, An Ancient Muse, is her first album of new material in nearly ten years. It's a stunning album wherein Loreena McKennitt musically traverses the ancient Silk Road, studying the influence and roots of the Celts.
Loreena McKennitt's 2006 album, An Ancient Muse, is her first album of new material in nearly ten years. It's a stunning album wherein Loreena McKennitt musically traverses the ancient Silk Road, studying the influence and roots of the Celts.
Think of One: 'Camping Shaabi'
Review of Belgium-based world fusion band Think of One's eighth CD, "Camping Shaabi".
Review of Belgium-based world fusion band Think of One's eighth CD, "Camping Shaabi".
Cajun Mardi Gras Celebrations
The country Mardi Gras celebrations in Southwest Louisiana are entirely different than the big-city bacchanalia of New Orleans celebrations.
The country Mardi Gras celebrations in Southwest Louisiana are entirely different than the big-city bacchanalia of New Orleans celebrations.
2007 Grammy Winners
A list of the winners of the 2007 Grammy Awards in the world music, reggae, Hawaiian music, Native American music and polka categories. Winners include Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Soweto Gospel Choir, Jimmy Sturr, Ziggy Marley and more.
A list of the winners of the 2007 Grammy Awards in the world music, reggae, Hawaiian music, Native American music and polka categories. Winners include Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Soweto Gospel Choir, Jimmy Sturr, Ziggy Marley and more.
Tuvan Throat Singing 101
Tuvan Throat Singing is a style of singing that comes from Tuva, a small republic in Central Asia. Tuvan Throat Singers are able to produce a number of notes from their voice at one time.
Tuvan Throat Singing is a style of singing that comes from Tuva, a small republic in Central Asia. Tuvan Throat Singers are able to produce a number of notes from their voice at one time.
Putumayo Presents World Hits
A review of Putumayo Presents World Hits - a compilation CD featuring songs that have crossed over into the main stream; actual hit songs by world music artists.
A review of Putumayo Presents World Hits - a compilation CD featuring songs that have crossed over into the main stream; actual hit songs by world music artists.
Rocksteady 101
Rocksteady music is a derivative of ska music that became popular in Jamaica during the late 1960s, when reggae music was also becoming popular. Popular artists of the rocksteady era of jamaican music are Toots and the Maytals, Justin Hinds and the Dominoes and Alton Ellis.
Rocksteady music is a derivative of ska music that became popular in Jamaica during the late 1960s, when reggae music was also becoming popular. Popular artists of the rocksteady era of jamaican music are Toots and the Maytals, Justin Hinds and the Dominoes and Alton Ellis.
Mbira
The mbira is the national instrument of Zimbabwe. The mbira is of the lamellophone family of musical instruments, and consists of a board or block with attached metal strips. These strips are tuned as keys, and plucked or flipped to play melody and rhythm. Mbira music is considered sacred to the Shona people of Zimbabwe.
The mbira is the national instrument of Zimbabwe. The mbira is of the lamellophone family of musical instruments, and consists of a board or block with attached metal strips. These strips are tuned as keys, and plucked or flipped to play melody and rhythm. Mbira music is considered sacred to the Shona people of Zimbabwe.
Manu Chao - La Radiolina
La Radiolina is Manu Chao's first studio CD in 6 years, and, in all honesty, it was worth the wait. The CD is classic Manu Chao, in the sense that it's wildly fresh and pushes boundaries like no one else can.
La Radiolina is Manu Chao's first studio CD in 6 years, and, in all honesty, it was worth the wait. The CD is classic Manu Chao, in the sense that it's wildly fresh and pushes boundaries like no one else can.
Learn Riverdance
"Riverdance" is a proprietary name of a Broadway show that toured nationally, gaining great popularity among Americans of all walks of life, many of whom wanted to learn how to "Riverdance".
"Riverdance" is a proprietary name of a Broadway show that toured nationally, gaining great popularity among Americans of all walks of life, many of whom wanted to learn how to "Riverdance".
Tinariwen
Tinariwen is the premier Tuareg musical group in the world. The band formed in Muammar al-Qaddafi's rebel camps in 1982, and have since switched from guns to guitars, bringing their music around the world.
Tinariwen is the premier Tuareg musical group in the world. The band formed in Muammar al-Qaddafi's rebel camps in 1982, and have since switched from guns to guitars, bringing their music around the world.
Le Trio Joubran - Majaz
Majaz is the Sophomore CD from the Palestinian oud group Le Trio Joubran. The CD showcases the Joubran brothers' masterful oud skills and their tasteful songwriting abilities.
Majaz is the Sophomore CD from the Palestinian oud group Le Trio Joubran. The CD showcases the Joubran brothers' masterful oud skills and their tasteful songwriting abilities.
Bashment
Bashment can refer to either dancehall music, or a large party where dancehall music is played.
Bashment can refer to either dancehall music, or a large party where dancehall music is played.
Loreena McKennitt
Loreena McKennitt is a popular musician who composes rich, multilayered Celtic-inspired New Age music. She is a multi-instrumentalist who plays keyboards, accordion, harp and more. Loreena McKennitt is also a gifted singer. Her albums "The Mask and the Mirror" and "Parallel Dreams" have become popular among fans of Celtic music and New Age music alike.
Loreena McKennitt is a popular musician who composes rich, multilayered Celtic-inspired New Age music. She is a multi-instrumentalist who plays keyboards, accordion, harp and more. Loreena McKennitt is also a gifted singer. Her albums "The Mask and the Mirror" and "Parallel Dreams" have become popular among fans of Celtic music and New Age music alike.
Desert Blues Playlist
The Sahara desert - a land of nomadic peoples - is the source of one of the most exciting movements in world music in recent history. With its cyclical connection to American blues, there are deep roots in the desert sand.
The Sahara desert - a land of nomadic peoples - is the source of one of the most exciting movements in world music in recent history. With its cyclical connection to American blues, there are deep roots in the desert sand.
Grammy Winners 2006
The winners in the world music categories at the 2006 Grammies were occasionally surprising, but all of impeccable quality.
The winners in the world music categories at the 2006 Grammies were occasionally surprising, but all of impeccable quality.
The Pine Leaf Boys: La Musique
The Pine Leaf Boys are one of the hottest young Cajun bands in Southwest Louisiana today. Their attitude is completely irreverent, and they are known for hilarious onstage antics, but their music is pure and straight-ahead old-style Creole and Cajun music.
The Pine Leaf Boys are one of the hottest young Cajun bands in Southwest Louisiana today. Their attitude is completely irreverent, and they are known for hilarious onstage antics, but their music is pure and straight-ahead old-style Creole and Cajun music.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Ladysmith Black Mambazo are one of the best-known world music groups today. Much of their fame stems from being featured on Paul Simon's "Graceland" album, as well as being featured at Nelson Mandela's Inauguration.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo are one of the best-known world music groups today. Much of their fame stems from being featured on Paul Simon's "Graceland" album, as well as being featured at Nelson Mandela's Inauguration.
Songs For Mothers
A playlist of world music songs about Moms. A great gift for Mother's Day. Songs include African music, Irish music, Jamaican music and more.
A playlist of world music songs about Moms. A great gift for Mother's Day. Songs include African music, Irish music, Jamaican music and more.
The Sound of the Aborigines
The didgeridoo is perhaps the oldest musical instrument from the wind family that exists. The didgeridoo is native to the Aboriginal peoples of Australia.
The didgeridoo is perhaps the oldest musical instrument from the wind family that exists. The didgeridoo is native to the Aboriginal peoples of Australia.
Bhangra 101
Bhangra was originally harvest-celebration music from the Indian region of Punjab. Bhangra music was given new life by Punjabi people living in England, who added dance and electronic elements to the original sounds, resulting in an exciting and modern genre that is gaining popularity worldwide.
Bhangra was originally harvest-celebration music from the Indian region of Punjab. Bhangra music was given new life by Punjabi people living in England, who added dance and electronic elements to the original sounds, resulting in an exciting and modern genre that is gaining popularity worldwide.
Angelique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo is a Benin-born singer whose amazing voice and remarkable stage presence have made her one of the most popular musicians in the world. Angelique Kidjo is also well-known for her work as a humanitarian, speaking out against the conflict in Darfur and the ravages of AIDS in Africa.
Angelique Kidjo is a Benin-born singer whose amazing voice and remarkable stage presence have made her one of the most popular musicians in the world. Angelique Kidjo is also well-known for her work as a humanitarian, speaking out against the conflict in Darfur and the ravages of AIDS in Africa.
Putumayo - The Caribbean
Putumayo's "The Caribbean" is a fun and playful romp through several of the islands that comprise the tropical region. Ska, Cuban Son, Mento and Soca are all represented.
Putumayo's "The Caribbean" is a fun and playful romp through several of the islands that comprise the tropical region. Ska, Cuban Son, Mento and Soca are all represented.
Rough Guide Vietnam
The Rough Guide to the Music of Vietnam is exactly what it describes itself as: a sampler CD covering a variety of folk and popular musical styles and artists from throughout Vietnam. Artists such as Huong Thanh, Nguyen Le, Kim Sinh and the Khac Chi Ensemble are featured.
The Rough Guide to the Music of Vietnam is exactly what it describes itself as: a sampler CD covering a variety of folk and popular musical styles and artists from throughout Vietnam. Artists such as Huong Thanh, Nguyen Le, Kim Sinh and the Khac Chi Ensemble are featured.
World Music Gift Ideas
We all have a few people in our lives who qualify as impossible to shop for. They either have everything, have insanely picky taste, or are just generally enigmatic. Some of these world music gifts might do the trick for them, though. CD recommendations, book recommendations and more for the hard to shop for people in your life.
We all have a few people in our lives who qualify as impossible to shop for. They either have everything, have insanely picky taste, or are just generally enigmatic. Some of these world music gifts might do the trick for them, though. CD recommendations, book recommendations and more for the hard to shop for people in your life.
Polka Music 101
Polka music is a form of European dance music which originated in what is now the Czech Republic. It migrated to the United States with Eastern European immigrants and remains quite popular in areas of the Midwest and Great Lakes Region.
Polka music is a form of European dance music which originated in what is now the Czech Republic. It migrated to the United States with Eastern European immigrants and remains quite popular in areas of the Midwest and Great Lakes Region.
Oud
The oud (or ud) is one of the oldest stringed instruments in existence, and is still regularly played today. It as an ancestor of the lute, and subsequently of the mandolin and guitar.
The oud (or ud) is one of the oldest stringed instruments in existence, and is still regularly played today. It as an ancestor of the lute, and subsequently of the mandolin and guitar.
How To Start a Drum Circle
Starting your own community drum circle can be scary and daunting, but it can also be a fun way to meet fellow music fans and learn more about rhythm patterns and the culture of drumming. Your drum circle can as formal or informal as you want.
Starting your own community drum circle can be scary and daunting, but it can also be a fun way to meet fellow music fans and learn more about rhythm patterns and the culture of drumming. Your drum circle can as formal or informal as you want.
What is World Beat
World Beat is a name given to genre-bending world music by corporate executives.
World Beat is a name given to genre-bending world music by corporate executives.
Northeast World Music Fests
The best music festivals in the Northeastern United States that feature World music.
The best music festivals in the Northeastern United States that feature World music.
Bagpipes
The bagpipes are a traditional instrument of the Scottish Highlands.
The bagpipes are a traditional instrument of the Scottish Highlands.
2006 World Music Obituaries
The world music community lost many great people in 2006. Among these are Jockey Shabalala, of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ali Farka Toure, Cheikha Rimitti, Desmond Dekker, Hamza el Din and Katherine Dunham.
The world music community lost many great people in 2006. Among these are Jockey Shabalala, of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ali Farka Toure, Cheikha Rimitti, Desmond Dekker, Hamza el Din and Katherine Dunham.
Mariza - Concerto Em Lisboa
Mariza is the reigning queen of Portuguese Fado music, and her latest CD "Concerto em Lisboa", a live recording of a concert in Lisbon, is absolutely wonderful. The CD also includes an hour-long documentary by the BBC entitled "Mariza and the Story of Fado".
Mariza is the reigning queen of Portuguese Fado music, and her latest CD "Concerto em Lisboa", a live recording of a concert in Lisbon, is absolutely wonderful. The CD also includes an hour-long documentary by the BBC entitled "Mariza and the Story of Fado".
Ladysmith Long Walk To Freedom
Long Walk To Freedom is the 2006 offering from South African band Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The CD features Sarah McLachlan, Emmylou Harris, Taj Mahal, Natalie Merchant, Zap Mama, Hugh Masekela, Melissa Etheridge and more.
Long Walk To Freedom is the 2006 offering from South African band Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The CD features Sarah McLachlan, Emmylou Harris, Taj Mahal, Natalie Merchant, Zap Mama, Hugh Masekela, Melissa Etheridge and more.
What's the difference?
It can be hard to tell what the differences are between World Music, Folk Music, Latin Music, Jazz and Blues.
It can be hard to tell what the differences are between World Music, Folk Music, Latin Music, Jazz and Blues.
World Music - GuideReviews
An index of GuideReviews for the World Music guide site.
An index of GuideReviews for the World Music guide site.
Mamadou Diabate
Mamadou Diabate is a Malian kora player, and a member of the Mandinka West African Jeli family. He generally plays traditional songs and tradition-based originals, but he has found ways to bring the kora to new audiences by occasionally performing with jazz and rock musicians as well.
Mamadou Diabate is a Malian kora player, and a member of the Mandinka West African Jeli family. He generally plays traditional songs and tradition-based originals, but he has found ways to bring the kora to new audiences by occasionally performing with jazz and rock musicians as well.
Putumayo Presents Gypsy Groove
Putumay Presents Gypsy Groove, CD Review, World Music, Gypsy Music, Balkan Beat Box, Luminescent Orchestrii, Balkan Music
Putumay Presents Gypsy Groove, CD Review, World Music, Gypsy Music, Balkan Beat Box, Luminescent Orchestrii, Balkan Music
Lucky Dube
Lucky Dube was a pioneer of reggae music in his native South Africa. Lucky Dube followed in the footsteps of Jamaican legends like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, with direct influences from his African roots.
Lucky Dube was a pioneer of reggae music in his native South Africa. Lucky Dube followed in the footsteps of Jamaican legends like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, with direct influences from his African roots.
Gamelan
The Gamelan is a musical ensemble, sometimes referred to as an orchestra, of Indonesian origin. The ensemble consists of several xylophones, bells, gongs and drums. Different Indonesian islands have different styles of gamelan, with the most popular styles being Balinese and Javanese.
The Gamelan is a musical ensemble, sometimes referred to as an orchestra, of Indonesian origin. The ensemble consists of several xylophones, bells, gongs and drums. Different Indonesian islands have different styles of gamelan, with the most popular styles being Balinese and Javanese.
Amadou & Mariam
Amadou & Mariam are one of the most remarkable bands in the world music scene today. They met at a school for the blind in Mali, fell in love and have been making music as a couple for over 25 years.
Amadou & Mariam are one of the most remarkable bands in the world music scene today. They met at a school for the blind in Mali, fell in love and have been making music as a couple for over 25 years.
New Orleans Jazz Fest
New Orleans Jazz Festival, despite its name, is actually a phenomenal festival for World Music lovers, featuring dozens of acts from United States' varied ethnic traditions and bands from around the world; especially Africa!
New Orleans Jazz Festival, despite its name, is actually a phenomenal festival for World Music lovers, featuring dozens of acts from United States' varied ethnic traditions and bands from around the world; especially Africa!
Jeli Kora Players
The top five jeli, or griot, kora players in the world.
The top five jeli, or griot, kora players in the world.
'Ships in the Forest' Review
Karan Casey's 2008 release 'Ships in the Forest' is a sweet, if slightly bland, collection of traditional Irish ballads performed with modern instrumentation.
Karan Casey's 2008 release 'Ships in the Forest' is a sweet, if slightly bland, collection of traditional Irish ballads performed with modern instrumentation.
Patois
Patois (or Patwa) is an Afro-English dialect, widely spoken in Jamaica. Many reggae and ska songs are sung in Patois.
Patois (or Patwa) is an Afro-English dialect, widely spoken in Jamaica. Many reggae and ska songs are sung in Patois.
Tinariwen - Aman Iman
Tinariwen is a band comprised of Tuareg people, desert nomads who play a combination of North African music and American blues. Their latest CD is called Aman Iman: Water is Life, and it is simply excellent.
Tinariwen is a band comprised of Tuareg people, desert nomads who play a combination of North African music and American blues. Their latest CD is called Aman Iman: Water is Life, and it is simply excellent.
Djembe
A djembe is a very popular type of hand drum. Djembes are popular among both professional and amateur musicians. Djembes are common elements in drum circles.
A djembe is a very popular type of hand drum. Djembes are popular among both professional and amateur musicians. Djembes are common elements in drum circles.
Balkan Beat Box
Balkan Beat Box are currently one of the hottest world fusion bands around. They call their unique sound New Mediterraneo. Balkan Beat Box was founded by Ori Kaplan (formerly of Gogol Bordello) and Tamir Muskat.
Balkan Beat Box are currently one of the hottest world fusion bands around. They call their unique sound New Mediterraneo. Balkan Beat Box was founded by Ori Kaplan (formerly of Gogol Bordello) and Tamir Muskat.
Riddim
Riddim refers to an instrumental, stripped-down version of a reggae, ska or dancehall song. It is usually heavy on drums and bass, and is often played while a dancehall deejay "toasts", or raps.
Riddim refers to an instrumental, stripped-down version of a reggae, ska or dancehall song. It is usually heavy on drums and bass, and is often played while a dancehall deejay "toasts", or raps.
Ska Cubano - Ay Caramba!
Ska Cubano is a band that fuses Jamaican ska with Cuban Son and Colombian Cumbia. Ska Cubano's 2006 debut CD, Ay Caramba!, is exciting, dynamic and, above all, fun!
Ska Cubano is a band that fuses Jamaican ska with Cuban Son and Colombian Cumbia. Ska Cubano's 2006 debut CD, Ay Caramba!, is exciting, dynamic and, above all, fun!
Sara Tavares - Balance
CD Review: Sara Tavares - Balance. Sara Tavares is a Portuguese woman of Cape Verdean descent who has recorded a delightful multilingual and multigenre CD, Balance.
CD Review: Sara Tavares - Balance. Sara Tavares is a Portuguese woman of Cape Verdean descent who has recorded a delightful multilingual and multigenre CD, Balance.
Django Reinhardt
Django Reinhardt was the godfather of gypsy jazz (or "manouche") music, a style which blended traditional Gypsy (Rom) music with American big band and swing music. Django Reinhardt is considered by many to be the best guitarist of all time, despite the fact that his left hand was badly mangled in a fire and he had use of only two fingers.
Django Reinhardt was the godfather of gypsy jazz (or "manouche") music, a style which blended traditional Gypsy (Rom) music with American big band and swing music. Django Reinhardt is considered by many to be the best guitarist of all time, despite the fact that his left hand was badly mangled in a fire and he had use of only two fingers.
Ska Cubano
Ska Cubano is a band whose members are spread around the globe and who play a combination of ska music, Cuban son and Colombian cumbia.
Ska Cubano is a band whose members are spread around the globe and who play a combination of ska music, Cuban son and Colombian cumbia.
World Music - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the World Music guide site.
An index of HowTos for the World Music guide site.
Festival International
Festival International is a free street festival in Lafayette, Louisiana. Festival International de Louisiane is the United States' largest francophone music festival, showcasing dozens of artists from around the globe every year. The festival often coincides with one weekend of New Orleans JazzFest, so many people attend both.
Festival International is a free street festival in Lafayette, Louisiana. Festival International de Louisiane is the United States' largest francophone music festival, showcasing dozens of artists from around the globe every year. The festival often coincides with one weekend of New Orleans JazzFest, so many people attend both.
Where To Start in World Music
Where should one begin looking when starting to delve into the mighty genre that is world music?
Where should one begin looking when starting to delve into the mighty genre that is world music?
Going Down To Louisiana
Cedric Watson and Corey Ledet present an array of traditional Louisiana roots music, including Cajun music, Creole music and Zydeco music, on their new CD, "Going Down To Louisiana", from Valcour Records.
Cedric Watson and Corey Ledet present an array of traditional Louisiana roots music, including Cajun music, Creole music and Zydeco music, on their new CD, "Going Down To Louisiana", from Valcour Records.
World Music Christmas Albums
Are you going to snap if you have to hear "Jingle Bell Rock" one more time? Yeah, me too. Luckily, there are dozens of fabulous world music artists who have released Christmas albums that are completely different from any of the standard fare.
Are you going to snap if you have to hear "Jingle Bell Rock" one more time? Yeah, me too. Luckily, there are dozens of fabulous world music artists who have released Christmas albums that are completely different from any of the standard fare.
Cesaria Evora Concert Review
A review of the Cesaria Evora concert in New York City at the Beacon Theatre on 3/30/06. Seu Jorge opened.
A review of the Cesaria Evora concert in New York City at the Beacon Theatre on 3/30/06. Seu Jorge opened.
2006 IRAWMA Winners
The winners of the 2006 International Reggae and World Music Awards include Damian Marley, Sean Paul, Matisyahu, Shakira, Youssou N'Dour, Sly and Robbie, Wyclef Jean and more.
The winners of the 2006 International Reggae and World Music Awards include Damian Marley, Sean Paul, Matisyahu, Shakira, Youssou N'Dour, Sly and Robbie, Wyclef Jean and more.
NAMMY Nominees
The 2006 Native American Music Awards Nominees include Keith Secola, Joanne Shenandoah, The Black Lodge Singers, The Cherokee National Youth Choir and more. Read for the complete list of NAMMY Award Nominees.
The 2006 Native American Music Awards Nominees include Keith Secola, Joanne Shenandoah, The Black Lodge Singers, The Cherokee National Youth Choir and more. Read for the complete list of NAMMY Award Nominees.
Los Pleneros de la 21
Los Pleneros de la 21 is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to keeping the traditional music of Puerto Rico alive among the Puerto Rican community in New York.
Los Pleneros de la 21 is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to keeping the traditional music of Puerto Rico alive among the Puerto Rican community in New York.
Thomas Mapfumo
Thomas Mapfumo, known as the Lion of Zimbabwe, is one of Africa's most beloved musical performers. He invented a genre of music called "chimurenga", which blended traditional shona music with Western rock and pop. Thomas Mapfumo's outspoken lyrics resulted in his political exile from Zimbabwe.
Thomas Mapfumo, known as the Lion of Zimbabwe, is one of Africa's most beloved musical performers. He invented a genre of music called "chimurenga", which blended traditional shona music with Western rock and pop. Thomas Mapfumo's outspoken lyrics resulted in his political exile from Zimbabwe.
World Music - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the World Music guide site.
An index of Profiles for the World Music guide site.
Zap Mama - Supermoon
Zap Mama's 2007 CD "Supermoon" is a sultry fusion of African and Euro-pop styles. Read my review
Zap Mama's 2007 CD "Supermoon" is a sultry fusion of African and Euro-pop styles. Read my review
World Music Gift Alternatives
Instead of giving the same old gifts you always give, try these world music gift alternatives. Give CDs instead of candles, better magazine subscriptions, and more.
Instead of giving the same old gifts you always give, try these world music gift alternatives. Give CDs instead of candles, better magazine subscriptions, and more.
Eileen Ivers - An Nollaig
Eileen Ivers's 2007 Christmas release is entitled "An Nollaig", and it's a nice, though not extraordinary, Christmas album.
Eileen Ivers's 2007 Christmas release is entitled "An Nollaig", and it's a nice, though not extraordinary, Christmas album.
Putumayo: Acoustic Africa
Putumayo Presents Acoustic Africa is a wonderful CD that includes acoustic cuts from Angelique Kidjo, Habib Koite, Gabriela Mendes, Diogal and more.
Putumayo Presents Acoustic Africa is a wonderful CD that includes acoustic cuts from Angelique Kidjo, Habib Koite, Gabriela Mendes, Diogal and more.
Makam
A maqam is a system of melodic structures and melody types which provide a structure for musical compositions. Maqams are the basis of music in a number of North African, Middle Eastern and Central Asian regions.
A maqam is a system of melodic structures and melody types which provide a structure for musical compositions. Maqams are the basis of music in a number of North African, Middle Eastern and Central Asian regions.
Grammy Guide 2006
A guide to the world music Grammy awards nominees, with winner picks and more!
A guide to the world music Grammy awards nominees, with winner picks and more!
Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago offers workshops and classes in many genres of world, ethnic and folk music.
The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago offers workshops and classes in many genres of world, ethnic and folk music.
2006 NAMMY Winners
The winners of the 2006 NAMMY Awards (Native American Music Awards) are in! Winners include Keith Secola, R. Carlos Nakai, Pura Fe, Joseph Fire Crow, John Densmore and Link Wray.
The winners of the 2006 NAMMY Awards (Native American Music Awards) are in! Winners include Keith Secola, R. Carlos Nakai, Pura Fe, Joseph Fire Crow, John Densmore and Link Wray.