The Queen of African Music
Miriam Makeba · 1987
48 min · 11 tracks · jazz · African popular music · township music
A vibrant fusion of traditional African rhythms and modern jazz influences, celebrating cultural identity and resilience.
The Queen of African Music is an album by Miriam Makeba, released in 1987. A vibrant fusion of traditional African rhythms and modern jazz influences, celebrating cultural identity and resilience. This album is significant for its role in popularizing African music globally, helping to elevate the genre's status in the world music market. The track 'Pata Pata' became emblematic of African musical heritage, influencing countless artists and contributing to discussions around cultural representation during the late 20th century. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Queen of African Music sound like?
A vibrant fusion of traditional African rhythms and modern jazz influences, celebrating cultural identity and resilience. Rooted in jazz and African popular music.
What makes The Queen of African Music by Miriam Makeba notable?
This album is significant for its role in popularizing African music globally, helping to elevate the genre's status in the world music market. The track 'Pata Pata' became emblematic of African musical heritage, influencing countless artists and contributing to discussions around cultural representation during the late 20th century. By 1987, Miriam Makeba was an established artist, having gained international recognition since her debut in the 1960s. 'The Queen of African Music' followed her album 'Shaka Zulu' from 1987, showcasing her continued evolution as a cultural ambassador and music icon. This release marked a period where she actively engaged with political themes through her music.
How many songs are on The Queen of African Music?
The Queen of African Music has 11 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 African Convention 5:07
- 2 I Shall Sing Standout 2:41
- 3 Goodbye Poverty Standout 5:31
- 4 Malaisha 3:40
- 5 Pata Pata Standout 2:50
- 6 We Got to Make It 4:12
- 7 Chicken (Kikirikiki) 4:22
- 8 The Lion Cries (Wimoweh) 4:57
- 9 Ndibanga hamba 5:45
- 10 Iyaguduza 5:26
- 11 Click Song 3:34
Release Date
January 1, 1987
Artist Origin
Algeria
Runtime
48 min 5 sec
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