Series: 33 1/3 Africa

Sorrow Tears and Blood offers a glimpse into the complicated social, cultural, and political phenomenon that is Nigeria. Though Nigeria is the most populous African country, and sometimes called the “Giant of Africa,” Fela’s album sheds a sharp light on the reasons why Nigeria has not lived up to its potential. While the text primarily hovers over 1977 (the year...

Celebrated, controversial, and conspicuously eclectic, Paul Simon’s Graceland stands among the monumental albums of the 20th century. This book explores how and why it made its mark, from the international collaborations that defined its musical character, to the inflamed political environment from which it emerged. Graceland incorporated some of South Africa’s most beloved popular music traditions, including ‘township jive’, kwela,...