Digging 4 Gold / Sound of Africa Vol. 2!

Text 12 Feb 8 notes Sound of Africa Vol. 2!

Due to some unforeseen mishaps, this mix was delayed for far too long. However, I’ve finally been able to get back on track and post the next official installment of the Sound of Africa.

This series of mixes was meant to highlight the varying sounds that dominate mainstream radio in Africa. From Kwaito and House in South Africa, to Bongo Flavour or Kenyan Local music in East Africa, to the overwhelmingly popular Niaja rap and Hiplife in West Africa, the popular music of the day is hard-hitting and influenced by, both, internal and external forces. So far, we’ve had offerings from mostly west Africa, but my aim is to expand into other regions. For now though, we focus on Vol. 2.

These 30 tracks were some of the biggest tunes in Ghana last year, including none other than Mr. “Baby Jet” footballer, Asamoah Gyan, who is fast becoming a more reliable hit-maker (with the aid of Castro) than penalty shooter. The mix also higlights GH’s own version of Twista - Sarkodie. Hailing from Accra’s sister city, Tema, Sarkodie is Ghana rap’s crowning achievement, balancing pop and underground, and is set - if the trend towards african artists continues - to make an impression overseas. The same can be said about D’Banj, who was recently signed by Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music label.

D’Banj has long been a star in Africa, but it seems that he’s finally going to get the backing from international labels to take his music outside of the continent. Although, talk to any African in the US or Europe and they’ll tell you this is old news - D’Banj’s 2008 “Fall in Love” is practically an African wedding party standard. But it’s D’Banj’s ability to straddle the fence between highlife-esque songs, hard-edged rap, and club-oriented club bangers that’s allowed him to flourish. Peep out his latest hit, “Oliver Twist,” for further proof.