As more West African artists create sounds that inspire internet trends and extend their longevity, others are experimenting with new forms and doubling down on storytelling. Read ahead for the best West African music of the year so far.
In "Eh Mane Ah" (whose title translates to "Take This Advice") bubu king Janka Nabay and his Bubu Gang tackle issues of overpopulation and birth rates in Sierra Leone over a relentless rapid-fire beat. The track, a staple of Janka and crew's unyielding live sets, gets a Los Angeles sepia-tone video courtesy of director Jon Casey. Grab Janka & The Bubu Gang's excellent En Yay Sah LP, out now on David Byrne's Luaka Bop.
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As more West African artists create sounds that inspire internet trends and extend their longevity, others are experimenting with new forms and doubling down on storytelling. Read ahead for the best West African music of the year so far.
These are the lines that have woken imaginations and stirred souls across the continent and beyond.
OkayAfrica is the premiere digital platform bringing the worlds of African music, art, culture, style, sports and politics to a global audience. Founded in 2010 as an extension of Okayplayer, OkayAfrica serves as a cultural bridge to foster deeper understanding of the continent, while also building meaningful connections with its diaspora.
OkayAfrica is the premiere digital platform bringing the worlds of African music, art, culture, style, sports and politics to a global audience. Founded in 2010 as an extension of Okayplayer, OkayAfrica serves as a cultural bridge to foster deeper understanding of the continent, while also building meaningful connections with its diaspora.
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