This 1957 compilation attempts to provide a musical overview of the entire Sub-Saharan region, and also represents the scholarly contribution of American ethnomusicologist Alan P. Merriam (1923 -1980) to the Folkways catalog. Merriam, who is best remembered for the book The Anthropology of Music, produced the album and provided an essay and track notes. This title went a long way towards dispelling prejudices and misconceptions listeners of the time may have had about African music. Merriam wrote, "The African music system works by it's own rules and satisfies those who play it and sing it; it is neither necessarily older nor younger nor better nor worse."

Tracklist:

Zulu Song
Swazi Song
Chopi Timbila Orchestra
Amakwavi Song
Bushmen Song
Bushmen Song
Bechuana Song
Bechuana Song
Bechuana Song
Luchosi Song
Gangele Song
Tutsi Song
Tutsi Drums
Twa Chorus
Hororo Flute
Shi Kasayi (Sansa)
Kivu Bambuti Chorus With drums
Bambuti (Pygmy) Song
Bambuti Songs
Bambuti (Pygmy) Song
Pende Xylophone
Pindi Sansa With Voice
Sudanese Harp With voices
Sudanese Song With drums
Mahafaly Song
Ibani Sansa & Horas
Yoruba Chorus & Mixed Orchestra
Bulu Chorus
Ewe Chorus With Drum, Rattle, Gong
Bambara Minstrels
Acoli Voice & Lute
Mboko Zither-Harp
Bakwiri Song With Musical Bow
Makwa Female Chorus
Boungomo Chorus With Drums
Babinga (Pygmy) Voices With Stick Percussion
Wolof Drums
Wolof Halam

UPC: 093070450325
Label: Folkways Records
Release Date: 5.30.12
Format: CD

Africa South Of The Sahara - Africa South of Sahara / Various (CD)