The blues has it's origins planted in West Africa, and it was transported to the United States with the slaves, who then brought their music and influences to create the blues (this is the brief version of the story).
While I was exploring new blues music, I stumbled upon a blues band from Mali called Songhoy Blues. They started playing by trying to uplift the refugees of the war-torn country, especially after last year's Timbuktu taking by armed jihadists (it has since been liberated), who were being oppressed by severe Islamic laws.
After playing a few local bars, the band was then introduced to Nick Zinner of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, who recorded a song with them called 'Soubour' which means 'patience', a song referencing the refugees of Mali.
And with that, the song has been released on a compilation album by Africa Express called Maison Des Jeunes, and now have been invited to play a gig in the UK.
Blues music is truly universal and I am very happy I stumbled on this music. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.