When corporate newspapers bring us global news why do corporate radio stations insist on playing only American songs ? This policy limits the global story to a fraction of important cultural information. News stories are only relevant for a short time, when a song can speak to the human spirit forever. Furthermore while the death tolls of aids victims and the coverage of famines are certainly crucial, so is an understanding of any cultures beauty in order for us to feel connected to these nameless statistics.
South African Jazz artist Selaelo Selota, who recently released the album Lapeng Laka provides a human connection that is lacking in news coverage of international affairs. His music melds classical training in Jazz guitar, the traditional sound of the SePedi culture and his incredible vocal talent, which is somewhat reminiscent of Jack Johnson.
I don't believe the following song is off his most recent album but it is a good example of his style.
I don't believe the following song is off his most recent album but it is a good example of his style.
If anyone has ideas for a series on African artists feel free to comment or if you have an opinion on Salaelo Selota feel free to post that as well!
I like his song a lot, and that was quite the music video production. I wish music and other arts with that much embedded culture were more prevalent, as you said.
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