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introduction to african music

Here's an attractively-designed site that serves as a wonderful introduction to the music of Africa. At Africa Online's Music section, you can select a part of the continent (North, South, East, West or Central), then choose from a list of countries. You'll be taken to a well-written essay providing a brief history of the nation, followed by a nice narrative of the development of its musical styles. I particuarly appreciated the ample space devoted to contemporary pop acts--often completely invisible off the continent--and give an enthusiastic endorsement to the Listening Booth area at the bottom of each essay, in which you can hear selections from the work of several current artists. Newcomers to African music scenes would find a visit to this site well worth their time. Make a note of it.

Mon, 24 Jan 2000 08:44:46 -0800