Traditional & Indigenous
Roots of the Rainbow Nation
The Story of Traditional Music
Ancient Roots: Passed down through generations orally.
Modernization: Artists began recording and amplifying traditional instruments.
Global Interest: Artists like Ladysmith Black Mambazo brought these sounds to the world.
What Defines Traditional Music
Instruments
Use of indigenous instruments like the guitar (Maskandi style), concertina, and drums.
Language
Sung in pure indigenous languages.
Storytelling
Preserves history and folklore.
Traditional Music's Cultural Footprint
Preserves identity and heritage.
Maskandi, in particular, has a massive and loyal following.
Artists Defining Traditional Music
Keepers of the culture.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Isicathamiya group with multiple Grammys.
Mahlatini and the Mahotella Queens
Mbaqanga pioneers.
Phuzekhemisi
Maskandi legend known for social commentary.
The Diversity Within Traditional Music
A style for every culture.
Traditional Success Stories
Global recognition.
Graceland
Ladysmith Black Mambazo's collaboration with Paul Simon introduced Isicathamiya to the world.