Alpha Blondy

28.01.03

Alpha Blondy is also a recent discovery. Don't know how I lived without him, really. Within weeks of discovering his first songs, I had acquiered all of his albums. He's that good.

For those not yet in the know, Alpha Blondy is a modern reggae star. His name, which means "First Bandit," has been splashed across raggae festivals' boards for the last fifteen years, with Alpha and his band the Solar System serving as what has arguably become Africa's leading reggae entourage. Born in the Ivory Coast, he sings in both French and English, as well as in his language, Dioula. His songs can be about anything from African militantism to love to rock music. And although his voice is a little nasal, it somehow becomes part of his charm.

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Fela

07.01.03

I was introduced to Fela, and African music in general, really, by my boyfriend. It's pretty reasonable to me that an American does not know the first thing about African music, given how closed-in the country is and the weath of American artists so readily available. However, I am still completely shocked when I think that I had once lived without knowing Fela's music.

Ok, that's a bit dramatic. But given my musical taste, and that of those I talk music with, I am truly surprised that nobody pulled me to the side, shoved a copied tape into my hands and said, "Yo, Lee, you gotta hear this."

But not only was Fela an amazing musician, but he was an extremely influential political figure in Nigeria and the throughout Africa. Shame on me for not knowing until I was in my twenties.

So, I am trying to ignorance from putting anybody kind enough to stop by the site to shame. Because, yo, you gotta hear this.

Fela is a singer/musician from a powerful Nigerian family. Well known for his involvement in African politics and freedom-fighting (he was imprisoned on several occasions for his comments against the Nigerian government), he is the undeniable father of Afrobeat. Fela was stronly influenced by his first tour of the United States, where he mingled with Black Panthers and was introduced to the readings and teachings of Malcolm X. His band, Fela Ransome Kuti and the Africa 70, at one point had 80 people. With over 50 (highest number I have ever heard is 77, but I don't remember where I heard that) albums to his name, primarily all from the 1970's, there has been a significant worldwide Fela revival since his death to AIDS in 1997. Outspoken, quick, determined, and a bit mad - elements of Fela that are all audible in his music.

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