When African-American musician Billy Waters died in London in 1823, it was in poverty and with his reputation in tatters. Now, 200 years later, researchers and musicians are finally ensuring he gets the respect he deserves
Known for his solo work as much as his many groups (Nickel Creek, Punch Brothers) and collaborations, the US mandolin virtuoso picks the albums that shaped him
Fela Kuti is synonymous with Afrobeat, but there are two other underappreciated pioneers of the genre. Nigel Williamson speaks to Tony Allen and Orlando Julius
Daniel Brown looks at the astonishing legacy of pioneering Nigerian drummer Tony Allen, and how the rhythms he left behind continue to innovate and inspire
Trailblazing Jamaican reggae singer, actor and cultural icon has died age 81
The legendary Afrobeat drummer Tony Allen died in Paris April 30 2020
A teenage trap phenomenon who became the youngest Argentine to play NPR’s Tiny Desk – flanked by a murga troupe and a copy of Martín Fierro. Humphrey Inzillo on the artist trading reggaeton beats for his country’s deepest folk traditions
Chris Wheatley explores how a childhood prescription inspired Avneesh Bacha to found a label dedicated to preserving and innovating music from Mauritius
The Black Rio movement gave voice to Black Brazilians in the 1970s. Its musical and political legacy continues to impact new generations
EartH, London hosts epic tribute to influential English folk singer and guitarist
Songlines’ October 2019 cover star and last year’s winner of the magazine’s World Pioneer award, Nitin Sawhney, is set to release his new album, Immigrants, later this year via Sony Music Masterworks
Discover the latest musical talent coming from Switzerland on an exclusive bonus CD, compiled by artlink, the Swiss Arts Council Pro Helvetia and FONDATION SUISA and free with the December issue of Songlines (#163)
Outstanding new releases from Ben Aylon, La Chicana, Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino, Lakou Mizik & Joseph Ray, Yat-Kha and more...
Smallpipes player Kathryn Tickell is steeped in the rich folk traditions of North East England and the Borders
Kevin Bourke visits an urban folk fest where Catalan party bands, Australian charisma and homegrown talent prove folk music thrives in the heart of the city
Start your journey and discover the very best music from around the world.
Subscribe