The Almighty Groove offers Colombian rhythms and African roots on debut EP Frère d’Afrique
The Almighty Groove is the new production imprint of long-time musical adventurer, John Hollis.
Fri, 15 November 24
Les Amazones d’Afrique feature on BBC’s The Cultural Frontline
The Cultural Frontline celebrates the music and activism of the pioneering West African super-group Les Amazones d’Afrique— an all-female collective on a mission to fight for women’s rights in Africa.
Broadcaster and DJ Rita Ray hears from band members Angelique Kidjo, Oumou Sangaré, Awa Sangho, Mariam Doumbia and Mamani Keita, to find out how they use their music to change attitudes towards women and encourage access to education. Plus, producer Valerie Malot shares how she kick-started the group with Oumou Sangaré in Bamako, Mali.
This ground-breaking group embrace music as a campaigning tool to tackle taboos that affect women, such as forced marriages, domestic violence, and female genital mutilation.
Despite the challenges they face in West Africa, Rita discovers the strength of this courageous group, sound-tracked by a live set recorded by the BBC on Les Amazones’ latest tour.
Featured Release
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Released 10 March 2017
Les Amazones d'Afrique are an all-female collective of west African musicians campaigning for gender equality. They have been described as a supergroup, and the characterisation seems apt. Angélique Kidjo, Kandia Kouyaté, Mamani Keita, Mariam Doumbia, Mariam Koné, Massan Coulibaly, Mouneissa Tandina, Nneka, Pamela Badjogo and Rokia Koné hold a strong pedigree.
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Further reading
The Blind Boys of Alabama to receive Lifetime Achievement Award from Americana Music Association
The cermony takes place on 18 September at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium.
Wed, 03 July 24
10 years of resistance: Les Amazones d’Afrique’s fight continues on Musow Danse
Righteous anger has never felt so warm and convincing. Or so goddam danceable.
Thu, 15 February 24
Track of the day: ‘IWAIWA FUNK’ by Bab L’ Bluz
French-Moroccan power quartet Bab L' Bluz, release the third track from their album Swaken.
Fri, 05 April 24