Saturday, October 5, 2024

Hispanic Heritage Month 2024: Hidden Sounds from Ecuador, Bolivia and Uruguay

The Other Afro-Latino: Hidden Sounds from Ecuador, Bolivia and Uruguay

While Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian musical giants have long basked in the spotlight, other black enclaves throughout Latin America have been quietly producing some of the New World's most vibrant music. In this episode, Afropop Worldwide embarks on a journey to explore these hidden sounds.


Our musical journey begins in an Ecuadorian desert valley, where African and Andean traditions have seamlessly fused into fiery dance rhythms. From there, we venture to the mangrove-studded region of Esmeraldas, searching for the last marimba legends who still call the jungle waterways home.


The journey continues to Bolivia, where a small but resilient black minority harnesses the power of music in their fight for recognition from the indigenous government. Our final stop takes us to Uruguay, where we immerse ourselves in the pulsating carnival beats of candombe.


Join us for an exciting episode featuring exclusive interviews and recordings with musical luminaries ranging from marimba master Papa Roncon to candombe-jazz virtuoso Hugo Fattoruso.

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New Articles

Joe Boyd's Epic Journey Through Global Music

Step into the extraordinary world of Joe Boyd, the visionary producer and writer who orchestrated the soundscape of a generation. Starting his illustrious career in the 1960s managing Americana acts, Boyd moved to London where he produced groundbreaking albums for legendary artists like Pink Floyd, The Incredible String Band, Toots and the Maytals, and Nick Drake.


In 1979, he founded Hannibal Records, a trailblazing label at the forefront of the world music movement, releasing an exceptional catalog that transcended borders and genres. Following his acclaimed memoir, White Bicycles: Making Music in the 1960s, which chronicled his formative years, Boyd has devoted himself to penning its much-anticipated sequel, And the Roots of Rhythm Remain. The title draws inspiration from Paul Simon's "Under African Skies" from the legendary Graceland album.


This new book is not just a sequel—it's a timeless masterpiece destined to become a classic in music literature. Like the enduring rhythms of Graceland, Boyd's narrative promises to resonate with readers and music aficionados for generations to come.


Don't miss our exclusive feature on Joe Boyd's indelible impact on the music industry. Join us in celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire and shape the world of music. This is a story that transcends time—a journey you won't want to miss.

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Afropop Staff Picks: October 2024

October has arrived, and with it comes a fresh wave of musical brilliance from across the African continent and diaspora. This month, Afropop Worldwide presents a handpicked selection of the most captivating and innovative music videos that have caught our eye. From groundbreaking visuals to powerful storytelling, these videos showcase the vibrant diversity, rich cultural expressions, and boundless creativity of artists making waves in the global music scene. Featuring a range of genres and styles, this month's selection highlights not only the artistry but also the cultural narratives that continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

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At Afropop Worldwide, we're not just about music—we're about the voices behind the sound.


For decades, we've introduced you to the rich and diverse stories of Africa and the African diaspora.


Now, more than ever, we need your help to amplify the voices of the next generation of artists and storytellers.


Your donation directly supports emerging talent, giving new voices the platform they deserve to share their music, culture, and stories with the world.

Every donation amplifies a new voice.

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