Two performers singing passionately in front of a graffiti-covered wall in Johannesburg, highlighting the city’s dynamic art scene.
No longer buried under the impossibly broad category of “world music,” African music has exploded into the mainstream with artists becoming superstars with global fan bases. While a number of factors have contributed to its success – newfound access via the Internet, collabs with Western artists, and increasing bonds between African and its diaspora – it is on a steady, upward trajectory. If you want to be current with the latest and hottest music from Africa, NYT has some great additions to your weekend playlist.