I've been siting on this post for quite some time. Here is the first three albums in the series called the Indestructible Beat of Soweto. I am not positive but I think that these are the only volumes in this series released on vinyl.
For the most part, the artists sampled on these compilations are of South African nationality, Soweto being an abbreviation for South Western Townships. This area of Johannesburg has had quite a bit of dealings during apartheid and contributed to the nations history of black/white society integration.
See Soweto Uprising
Anyways-- aside from the album art of these albums being completely radical, the artists represented here are tremendous. Most of the music is Mbaqanga, the style that had an important part of peaking my interested in African music.
I hope you all will enjoy this three part post, for these LPs are some of my most prized possessions even thought monetarily they are not worth a lot. The music on these albums is pulsing with fire from the souls of people who, during difficult times, pursued happiness through the sounds of music. Much Love,
MF
I bought "The Indestructible Beat Of Soweto" when it was first released. I had to direct order it from Shanachie Records. Although I have always loved Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masakela, It was my first real introduction to South African Music. I have collected many South African artists since buying the compilation but it has always been a masterpiece to me. I later obtained the second recording but was unaware that there was a third so I really appreciate your posting all three. Thanks so much. Your blog is fantastic.
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