World Stage, Afropop Spectacular with Oliver Mtukudzi & Fatoumata Diawara, February 8, 2013

Overview
Program
Notes

Overview

Two of Africa's greatest superstars, one night only! A national treasure in Zimbabwe, Oliver Mtukudzi is one of the most successful African recording artists in North America. Inspired by the hypnotic rhythms of the mbira (thumb piano), his music also incorporates South African mbaqanga, the energetic Zimbabwean pop style jit, and the traditional kateke drumming of his clan. "The most beguiling talent to hit the world music scene in some time" (Daily Telegraph, London), Fatoumata Diawara has created a unique contemporary folk sound with a distinctly African spin. She draws elements of jazz, blues, and funk into a sparse contemporary folk style, all the while paying tribute to the rocking rhythms and plaintive melodies of her ancestral Wassoulou tradition.