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South African pop has been long and deeply influenced by Europe and the US, yet it has a character distinct from anything else in Africa or the world. From 50s pennywhistle jive to 90s bubblegum to 21st-century kwaito (hip-hop), South African styles are unique, yet immediately accessible to global audiences.
Andy Kershaw has been a champion of South African music for years. You can hear Andy Kershaw on Sunday nights on Radio 3.
Listen to the whole programme (15'55) or click on any of the tracks to the left. |
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Nkosi Sikelel
by Mzwakhe Mbuli
album: Izigi
CDCCP 1091
The most uplifting lump-in-the-throat national anthem in the world. |
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Mbube
by Solomon Linda's Original Evening Songbirds
album: Rough Guide to the Music of South Africa
RGNET
The original version of 'Wimoweh' and 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight'. |
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Ulova
by Manhattan Brothers
album: Greatest Hits
Sterns Africa
South Africa's first black superstars, national icons in the 40s and 50s. |
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Ace Blues
by Spokes Mashiyane
album: King Kwela
Gallo
Pennywhistle jive, the big hit of 1954. |
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Nonto Sangoma
by African Jazz Pioneers
album: African Jazz Pioneers
Kaz Records
Leading group in the post-apartheid jazz revival. |
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