African Choral Music

Review: This CD, celebrating 10 years of the African Children's Choir, contains songs ranging from gospel (Highway to Heaven) to traditional African (Bafirisuti) and even American pop (From A Distance). The English songs have piano accompaniment, while the festive African music is accompanied by traditional drumming. Most of the songs are sacred and bring a message of peace. Created as a stepping stone to give children a better life, this retrospective is a testament to the benefit of the choir. This exuberant group of children will delight you.

Songlist: Highway to Heaven, It's a Small World, Bafirisuti, Through it All, All Things Bright and Beautiful, Motto Imewaka, Reach Out and Touch, O Sifuni Mungo, Shine Jesus Shine, Parapanda, Seed to Sow, Soon and Very Soon, Blessed be the Name, Amazing, Natamaba, From a Distance, Chinywa, Drummer Boy, Bed of Straw, Jesus is the Answer, Let There Be Peace, He's Got the Whole World

Review: The 10th recording by one of our favorite children's choirs, the African Children's Choir joins the Flemish Radio Orchestra for this collection of 10 accompanied songs. The traditional African song "Muije Bantuwe" segues into "I'll Be Here for You" and the lovely prayer "Earnestly;" and the gentle "Because You Loved Me" sits perfectly between the rhythmic, dramatic "Jigo Lo Ba" and "Kiga Dance." The powerful "Shadowland," "Mother Africa" and the traditional anthem "Nkosi Sikele" close the album perfectly, leaving us touched and moved by the voices of these beautiful children.

Songlist: Muije Bantuwe, I'll Be Here For You, Earnestly, Jigo Lo Ba, Because You Loved Me, Kiga Dance, Love Without End, Shadowland, Mother Africa, Nkosi Sikele

Review: Friends in the West International, sponsors of East Africa's African Outreach Academy, have a new CD by the African Children's Choir, and a new Christmas musical (which we are encouraged to perform in our communities to raise money for African children), The First African Christmas, songs from which are the first 8 tunes: the reggae-flavored "Message for Africa," "God's promise from long ago," "The Wise Men rap, " "The gifts," "Shepherd's carol," "Philip's song," "Gift for the King," and the music from "Gift for you to sing." Following are 6 more Christmas tunes, the a cappella "Betelehemu," "Go tell it on the mountain," "Have you any room for Jesus?", "Bed of straw", "Drummer boy" and "Silent Night." Most songs are accompanied. New energy and spirit for a timeless story from a talented Choir.

Songlist: Message for Africa, God's promise form long ago, The Wise Men rap, The Gifts, Shepherd's carol, Philip's song, Gift for the King, Christmas Celebration Songs:, Betelehmu, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Have you any room for Jesus?, Bed of Straw, Drummer Boy, Silent Night

Review: We love the pictures of these beautiful African children, the story behind the group's formationby Ray Barnett, and all the good the group's success has accomplished. "Because" is the fourth CD in our catalog, and we like them all. All accompanied, the emphasis remains on the bright, spirited voices of the children. 12 mostly Christian/spiritual songs: "Lord Be Magnified," "Shine, Jesus, Shine," "Seed To Sow," "How Good It Is," the title tune, the traditional spiritual "Steal Away," "Reach Out/Lean On Me," "Betelehemu," "From A Distance," "Take Up Your Cross," "Highway To Heaven" and "O Happy Day." A feel-good CD from start to finish!

Songlist: Lord Be Magnified, Shine Jesus Shine, Seed to Sow, How Good It Is, Because You Loved Me, Steal Away, Reach Out / Lean On Me, Betelehemu, From A Distance, Take Up Your Cross, Highway To Heaven, O Happy Day

Review: For 20 years, the African Children's Choir has astounded audiences everywhere with not only their beautiful sounds and moving stories but with the power and energy that accompanies each song. This recording is no exception. Filled with lively praise songs and gospel tunes, Devotion, lets this chorus shine. While all the performances are great, the simple traditional African songs accompanied by drums are truly highlights of this CD. For fans of the African Children's Choir, Devotion is a must have.

Songlist: Lord I Lift Your Name On High/How Good It Is, Teach Me To Dance, When I Was Lost, Here I am To Worship, Nothing But The Blood of Jesus, Inyi Watoto, You Are The Shepherd, Lord of All Creation, Silka Nze Nkubulile, Come Now Is The Time to Worship, Cast All Your Burdens/In My Life Lord, As The Deer Pants, Wamilele, Amazing Grace, Shout to the Lord, My Jesus, My Savior

Review: It's a heartwarming story, Ray Barnett's trip to Uganda to try to do something about the thousands of orphans dying of starvation in a bloody civil war. Much prayer and help from church groups later, the first ACC was selected and brought back to the US. Thus the world got to see actual beautiful, bright, singing African children, which in turn has led to thousands being helped and saved. In "Village" we are delighted by the smiling voices of these remarkable children on 25 lightly accompanied traditional African folk songs, and African-American spirituals. Traditional African songs like "Parapanda," "Abataka," "Jabulani Africa," "Mujje," "Ensi Zonna," "Bolingo" and "Kinakyo" blend well with songs in English like "From a Distance," "It Takes A Whole Village," "Because You Loved Me," "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" and "Seed to Sow." In case we haven't been clear, we'll just come out and say it: this is a feel-good CD, from the buying of it (which supports the ACC's good work), to the reading about these kids on the liner notes, to listening to every cut of this wonderful music! 

Songlist: Parapanda, Abataka, Jabulani Africa, Natamaba, It Takes A Whole Village, Mujje, Ensi Zonna, From A Distance, Kamuwe Ekirabo, O Happy Day, Bolingo, Kinakyo, O Sifuni Mungu, Ndyahimbisa, Eggulu Lyajjula Ettendo, Because You Loved Me, Betelehemu, Chwinywa, Seed to Sow, Let There Be Peace, Generation Song, Nagirira

Review: It was 1984 and Ray Barnett heard a news report from Africa that told of how thousands of orphans were dying in a bloody civil war in Uganda. Sickened by the images of famine and tragedy, Ray formed the African Children's Choir to show the world how bright and beautiful African children are. Money was raised from churches to go to Uganda, select and bring out the first ACC. Each year a new group is selected, while the former members go back to Africa to receive care and a good education. This CD is from a live concert on January 14th, 2000, which marked the 15th anniversary of the Choir and once again highlighted the joy, enthusiasm, energy and optimism of this remarkable group of children. There are colorful, fold-out liner notes that have exuberant pictures of these beautiful, smiling-as-they-sing children to go with the celebration on the CD. 19 songs, most lightly accompanied by a small orchestra of keyboards, bass, guitar, drums, horns, flute and oboe. These are largely traditional spirituals and gospel songs, joyfully and beautifully sung: "Walking in the Light," "Full the River," "Mwiji Mwena," "He is my Light"...each is a little rhythmic anthem. "This Little Light of Mine" sums up the concert, as the ACC truly lets it shine! 

Songlist: Walking in the Light, Full the River, Mwiji Mwena, He is my Light, Highway to Heaven, Crouch Medley, He's the Way, If we ever, Carnival, Earnestly, Noimusanyu, This Little Light of Mine, Standing for Heaven, Testify, Reach Out and Touch, Holy Ground, He's Got the Whole World, Little on the Road, O Happy Day

Review: The African Children's Choir celebrates its fifteenth anniversary in concert on the DVD Still walking in the Light. This joyful program features the children in bright costumes in energetic dance numbers. Many of the numbers are traditional African songs with drumming accompaniment. The choir is joined by the Young Africans, who are all previous members of the children's choir. If you enjoy their recordings, you will love seeing them in action. This is a tremendously delightful event.

Songlist: Walking in the Light, Full the River, Mwiji Mwena, He is my Light, Highway to Heaven, Crouch Medley, He's the Way, If we ever, Carnival, Earnestly, Noimusanyu, This Little Light of mine, Standing for Heaven, Testify, Reach out and Touch, Holy Ground, He's got the whole World, Little on the Road, O Happy Day

Review: This inspiring 20th anniversary gospel concert at the beatiful Opheum Theare in Vancouver B.C. Is an accumulation of two decades of heartwarming music and performances by the African Children's Choir. Since arriving in Vancouver in September 1984 their incredible journey has taken them around the globe where they have exhilarated audiences everywhere with their message of hope and healing. The performance, featuring 60 current and former members of the African Children's Choir, united today's Choir children with young adults who ere members of the very first Choirs in the mid-1980s. This moving concert, dedicated to South African Children orphaned by AIDs, features traditional gospel favorites performed during the Choir's early years, along with new music from the Choir's most recent CD. It includes "you are the Shepherd," written especially for the Choir by Keith and Kristyn Getty, and "Teach Me To Dance", which brought the audience of 2200 to its feet to participate in the choir's exuberant praise to God.

Songlist: Walking in the light, Come, now is the time, Ndyahimbisa mukama, Somebody, O'sifuni mungu, The Lord be magnified, Pilatek, Take up your cross, Testify to love, Reach out/Lean on me He is my light, You are the shepherd, Lord I lift your name on high, Light of the world, Holy ground, Steal away, Because you loved me, Highway to heaven, Couch medley, Teach me to dance

Review: "Windows On The World" is a dynamic new musical, featuring an international cast, and the voices of Jodi Benson, the African Children's Choir and guests from around the globe. 13 songs, all accompanied: "He Is My Light," "Driftin'," the sweet ballad "Good News," "O Most High," "Journey Home (Song for the East)," "Standing for Heaven," "Let the Little Children Come," "How Good It Is," "You Are The Shepherd," "Hallelujah," "The Lord's Prayer," "There Is Hope" and "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands." The brightly-clad young ACC sing as brightly and spiritually as they look in the colorful liner notes. Joyous and inspirational!

Songlist: He Is My Light, Driftin, Good News, O Most High, Journey Home (Song for the East), Standing for Heaven, Let the Little Children Come, How Good it Is, You Are the Shepherd, Hallelujah, The Lord's Prayer, There Is Hope, He's Got the Whole World In His Hands

Review: Handpick singers from a number of South African choirs, put the excellent Mara Louw out in front as the lead, take a number of hymns they all know from church, as well as the South African national anthem, and you have the ingredients for this excellent disc. Unlike so many hymns, these are performed with great, roaring joy (arranged for the most part by Louw) and recorded--as it should be--in a church. But unlike, say, American or Jamaican gospel, there`s a sense of unity, rather than testifying; the voices embrace this music, but they sing it as it is, rather than using it as a lift-off point to testify. The harmonies might have their written roots in Europe, but the voices singing them are ineffably African, bringing something different to the sound. There`s a sense of control about it all, even when a speaking voice breaks in on `Jerusalem Ikhaya Lam,` for instance, or on the rare occasions when some very spare percussion accompanies the a cappella voices. It`s majestic, but that`s the intent, a nexus between Europe and Africa, meeting in Christianity. That`s even there on the by-now famous `Nkosi Sikelel`i Afrika,` the country`s very hymn-like national anthem, performed here as the closer, full-voiced and glorious, sung with unconcealed pride and joy.

Songlist: Hee! Ba Nyoriloeng, Siya Kudumisa Thixo, Ha Kelestshe - Kele Mobe, Kenang Bohle, Kese Ke Utloile, Imfazwe Imfazwe, Amahlathi Aphelile, Mphe Maleme Ase Kete / Vuthelani Ixilongo, Jerusalem Ikhaya Lam, Masibulele Ku Jesu, Bawo Ndingu Mntwana Wakho, Seteng Sediba Samadi, Rea Oboka Morena, Wakrazulwa Ngenxa Yami, Noyana, Ingoma Ka Ntsikana, Nkosi Sikelel'i Afrika

Review: The 34-strong, Johannesburg, South Africa-based Alexandra Youth Choir, directed by Mike Mncube (who does a lot of the group's arrangements), was called Realogile School Choir when it was formed in 1988. Usually AYCC performs a cappella, dancing and stamping their feet to give an extra kick to the performance. On "South African Choral" there is non-vocal percussion on several of the 20 cuts, and guitar, piano and sax on 3 cuts. Such instrumentation simply adds spice to the powerful, joyous, repetitive rhythms that course through this CD. "Uyamemeza," the traditional Xhosa song "Kunothixo Omkhulu," the traditional Zulu song "Iphi Imbiza Namhlanje," the traditional greeting song "Dumelang," the sweet spiritual "I Want to See," the Zulu song "Toffolu...this is feel-good, revival meeting-type stuff. Recommended!

Songlist: Uyamemeza, Wena Malindi Unngawami, Kunothixo Omkhulu, Wandibiza Umngoma, Baba Baxolele, Valani Ezongcango, Shapa Kwasa Kwasa, Iphi Imbiza Namhlanje, Ene Eli Ntale, Redibini, Kemokete, Dumelang, Saka-band, Lona Bontate, Intombi Ikhahlelu Sakazange, Nansi Lentombi, Ayo Ayo, I Want To See, Toffolux, Nkosi Sikelela

Review: Armed with a rucksack and a stereo tape recorder, David Fanshawe began a symbolic, now legendary, cross-shaped journey through Africa from 1969 to 1972, succeeding in recording music from well over 50 tribes. "Sanctus" is a highly original work in which very different cultures have been imaginatively and ingeniously fused, with the composer's love of the world, hope for the future and belief in one music--one God. There are 16 songs, with various kinds of accompaniment, from drums and percussion, lead and bass guitar and piano to organ, harp and trumpets. This is one of the most spirited, energetic CDs we have ever heard, as if the African veldt suddenly sprouted an Italian cathedral. For instance, "Crucifixus: Rain Song" combines driving drums, rain sounds, strange native percussion instruments, a soaring choral soprano solo, electric guitar, massed chorus and piano. One of our favorites, "Sanctus: Bwala Dance, Lamentation" combines chorus with powerful rhythmic drums, piano, sound effects and native voices. Other favorites are "Chants: Cattle Songs," and "The Lord's Prayer." A wonderful new composition by the composer, "Dona Nobis Pacem-A Hymn for World Peace" is included, in both short and long versions. A stunning masterwork! Recommended.

Songlist: African Sanctus, Kyrie: Call to Prayer, Gloria: Bride of the Nile, Credo: Sudanese Dances & Recitations, Love Song: Piano Solo, Et in Spiritum Sanctum, Crucifixus: Rain Song, Sanctus: Bwala Dance, Lamentation, The Lord's Prayer, Chants: Cattle Songs, Agnus Dei: War Drums, Call to Prayer: Kyrie, Finale & Gloria, Dona Nobis Pacem - A Hymn for World Peace, Et in Spiritum Sanctum, Dona Nobis Pacem (short version)

Review: "Mbiri kuna Mwari" is composed in the spirit of choral music heard at the Episcopal Cathedral in Harare, Zimbabwe, in the summer of 1993. Shona is the majority tribe in Zimbabwe and its language. The text is the Shona translation of the opening section of the Gloria of the Mass Ordinary. This traditional lullaby, "Thula, Babana," is from the eastern coastal region of South Africa. The singular sweetness of the melody has made it a favorite with South African choirs and audiences. In this arrangement, the melody is repeated several times, passing from one voice to the other, with a gradual variation and accumulation of accompanying texture, before fading into silence. Also included in this package is "Ghana Alleluia," "Kenya Melodies," and "African Celebration."

Songlist: Ghana Alleluia, Kenya Melodies, Mbiri Kuna Mwari, African Celebration

Review: Songs of Africa offers an exciting collection of 22 diverse pieces of African choral music that every singer, choral director, music educator, and enthusiast will find invaluable. Fred Onovwerosuoke and the St. Louis African Chorus have transcribed and created these arrangements, which represent a wide spectrum of Africa's regions and cultural practices. The songs cover subjects such as spirituality, religion, community, work, and play, and are selected from many African countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Congo, Benin Republic, South Africa, Namibia, and Gambia. They offer not only a welcome addition to choral repertoire but also a refreshing alternative for concert settings and church services. This collection includes useful notes on performance practice and cultural context, percussion charts, translations, and a pronunciation guide.

Songlist: Abanije (The Bully), Agoro Yede ('Tis Good to Play), Aluwa sio (Alleluia), Angigye aba (The High Life), Awa eshelele, Barka (Goodwill), Bolingo yanga na Yesu (All my loove for Jesus), Efuo (Holy), Hepepe (Hurray!), Je! ajua, Yesu anipenda (Jesus, we love you), Kaanamajoo (We Thank You), Kayra Sillo (The Way of Peace), Leo kuna faraha (Lots of Joy), Mayingo (Womanhood), Om' Oba ni (The Prince), Otu b'oma (Unity is Strength), Oyele ma (Dear Mother), Pata, pata (Touching), Safari Ya Bamba (A Voyage to Bamba), Tuli, tuli, Yesu sore (Jesus, wake up), Yogho (Achievement)

Review: "Mbube" music, regarded as dating back in Zulu tradition to King Shaka, was originally royal music to be sung to honor the Zulu King by his male supporters. The style-a rich a cappella male choral approach usually sung in Zulu, appeared in the early 20th century as "Ingoni Ebusuku," meaning "night music." Popular with Zulu and Swazi laborers, in the early 1940s one of the Ingoni Ebusuku groups recorded a song called "Mbube" (the lion), which became a model for the international hit "Wimoweh" (the Lion Sleeps Tonight), and since then this type of music has become known as Mbube. The three talented men of Insingizi, Vusa, Nqo and Ramadu, have deep Mbube roots and performing experience, and they have created a special, powerful collection of 17 songs here. The rhythmic gem "Amasango," the gospel-based "Jerusalem," "Ungangidluli Jesu" and "Siyabonga," the complex "Isiqholo" and "Mama," and "Uzoyidela" are favorites. Beautiful, extensive liner notes. Authentic, wonderful "night music" from Insingizi.

Songlist: Ingoma, Amasango, Ibele Lendlela, Jerusalem, Isqoqodo, Nanziwe, Ngizobambelela, Isiqholo, Mama, Ungangidluli Jesu, Yint'enjani, Uthando Lukajesu, Siyabonga, Uzoyidela, Ko Bulawayo, Vinqo, Mbonqane Groove

Review: Following the amazing worldwide success of their first album, the Zimbabwean vocal group Insingizi present fourteen new songs, a cappella or accompanied with African drums, clapping and whistles. "After the success of the first album we were faced with a challenge to produce a CD that would have an even greater impact" says group leader Vusa Mkhaya Ndlovu. "The songs on the new CD are a mixture of our own compositions as well as traditional songs that changed our music sense, such as "Londolozela" and the hard-hitting war song, "Lamlela ndwandwe". The other compositions were inspired by life in the townships and they reflect the day to day life in modern day Zimbabwe." From the aforementioned war song to the funeral song "Amagugu", to the traditional wedding songs "Londolozela" and "Umendo", sung by jubilant families at traditional wedding ceremonies, the album highlights the different moods mbube music is capable of heralding. Insingizi's music is filled with hope, optimism and faith. Wherever they go, the purity of their vocal interplay is overwhelmingly beautiful, the lyric is ultimately hopeful, and the inherent tone of their message is true to their spiritual beliefs.

Songlist: Amathalenta, Amagugu, Ngazengayibona, Halala, Lamelela Ndwandwe, Ukubekezela, Sekuseduze, Mtshumayeli, Kungemithandazo, Amisiko, Londolozela, Umendo, Ukuhlabelela, Sizomdumisa

Review: Following their performance at President Barrack Obama's inauguration, the choir in June 2009 released their critically acclaimed album; 'The Spirit of Africa' under Universal Music which featured among the top ten albums of the year in 2009 in the U.K. billboard charts. The album features traditional and contemporary songs from around Africa including Homeless, Nkosi Sikelel'l Afrika, Jambo Bwana and is guaranteed to transport you to a land of epic sun drenched savannahs, vibrant colours, big smiles, warmth and hope."

Songlist: Tuli Tuli, Homeless, Jambo Bwana, Kothbiro, Nkosi Sikelel'i Afrika, Kikererani Lelo (Kapchesan), Malaika, Asiyo, Soon and Very Soon, Kayra Sillo, Oluwa L'oluso Agutan Mi (The Lord's My Shepherd), Obama Yanza Vutswa, Lilova, O Holy Night

Review: Margaret Hamilton. This unique collection of songs from South Africa contains 35 songs of the people, performed in churches, workplaces and at gatherings. This book provides the first opportunity for churches, schools and colleges to perform these wonderful songs of liberation and Christian praise. Transcribed and introduced, including performance notes, by Maggie Hamilton and written for unaccompanied voices with guitar symbols for use with unison or two-part singing. The simplicity of many of the tunes and remaining parts makes them suitable for playing on glockenspiels, recorders or other melodic instruments. Published by Novello in association with Christian Aid. Foreword by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Songlist: Nkosi Sikelel'i Afrika (Lord Bless Africa), Inzima Lendleha (This Road is Heavy, Uthando Lwakhe (God's Love), Thuma Mina (Send Me), Tumelo Yaka ha Nkeke ka e Lathla (My Faith, I Will Never Lose It), Abasunda Nabamhlope (Blacks and Whites), Thula Sizwe (Be Silent, Nation), Tshollela Moya wa Hao, Jesu ( Pour Down Your Spirit, Lord), Hamba Vangeli (Spread the Word), Monateng Kapele (In Joy We Will Be Together), Say'ilim' Ingqolowa (We Are Ploughing Wheat), Lerato la Jeso le a Makatsa (The Love of Jesus is Wonderful), Siku rin Gwana (One Day), Ehlatin'e Lusaka (In Lusaka Bush), Studente sal Nooit Verloor (Students Will Never Lose), Stop Killing Our Children

Review: In the huge continent of Africa, the cradle of the human race, there are hundreds of different languages, hundreds of different instruments, many different types of melody, different types of antiphony (gospel churches call it "answer-back" or "call and response"). South Africa especially likes to sing in rich harmony. Three parts, four parts, five parts, six parts or more. The songs in this collection were selected, compiled and arranged by the great folk singer and musician Pete Seeger and edited by Robert DeCormier for use in schools, churches, community gatherings and homes. Through music and singing, we can experience a world of beauty, vigor, subtlety and rich variety. All a cappella with rehearsal piano.

Songlist: Abiyoyo, Hey,T'hola, T'hola, Manamolela, Bayandoyika, Inkosi Yamampondo, Bayeza (Oonomot'hot'holo), Ingoma Ya Bakweta, Somagwaza, Oalla Mohololi, Hey, Tswana, Babevuya, Ut'he Wena, Isileyi Sam, Father, Father, Goodbye, Hey, Motswala, Here's to the Couple, Vul' Emnyango, Uqongqot'hwane, Icamagu, Senzennina

Review: South Africa's 26-strong, mixed-voice Soweto Gospel Choir draws their talented singers from the churches and communities around Soweto. Their exuberant sound is a blend of traditional music rooted in song and percussion, combined with the influence of 19th century missionary music, called African Gospel. The Choir continually tours the world to standing ovations and sold-out concerts, and has performed with artists from Bono, Peter Gabriel and Queen to Diana Ross, Jimmy Cliff and Johnny Clegg. They are famous for their bright costumes and spirited live performances, and for their fundraisers to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in South Africa. 18 songs, some accompanied, are here. Traditional tunes "Setend Sediba," "Ke Na Le Modisa," "Izwi Lahlab'Inhiziyo Yami," "Africa," "Sefapano," "Modimo," "Somlandela" and "Shosholoza" are very fine, as is "Avulekile Amasango/Bob Marley's "One Love" medley, Bono's "One," Dylan's "I'll Remember You" and "Forever Young," and "Sitting in Limbo/This Little Light of Mine/M'Lilo Vutha Mathanjeni/If You Ever Needed the Lord" medley. Every cut on "Spirit" is a joy, as is looking at the pictures of these beautiful, powerful singers!

Songlist: Seteng Sediba, Avulekile Amasango/One Love, I'll Remember You, Ke Na le Modisa, Akahlulwa Lutho, Sitting in Limbo/This Little Light of Mine/M'Lilo Vutha Mathanjeni, Izwi Lahlab'inhiziyo Yami, Africa, One, Hlohonolofatsa, Hosanna, Sefapano, By the Rivers of Babylon, Modimo, Balm of Gilead, Forever Young, Somlandela, Shosholoza, World in Union

Review: Soweto Gospel Choir is the most successful and exciting vocal group to emerge from South Africa Since Ladysmith Black Mambazo. "Blessed", a follow up to their number 1 Billboard World Charts debut album "Voices From Heaven," takes their irresistible blend of traditional South African music, gospel and inspirational pop one step further. With some awe-inspiring South African hymns and great versions of such classics as "Oh Happy Day," "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," and "Khumbaya." The Soweto Gospel Choir with their intricate harmonies and soulful singing will beckon all to reclaim their spirit.

Songlist: Shewane, Asimbonanga/Biko, Jiko Yahao, A Place In Heaven, Njalo, I Bid You Goodnight, LeLilungelo Ngelakho, Oh Happy Day, Noyana, Masigiyae'bo, Swing Down, Weeping, Thapelo, Woza Meli Wami, Mbube, Tshepa Thapelo, Khumbaya, South African National Anthem

Review: On its fifth album for Shanachie, the Soweto Gospel Choir expands its musical reach outside its homeland and even the church, and in turn offers musical examples of the various meanings of the word "grace." On this 19-track collection, the group sticks close to its traditions on most songs, writing and performing original ones, as well as interpreting many traditional ones in their unique way in six of South Africa's official languages. In addition, they reach into the secular world with a radical reinterpretation of Paul Simon's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" that lends the song a far deeper, wider-ranging shade of meaning.

Songlist: Kae Le Kae, Emarabini, Mangisondele Nkosi Yam, Eli, O'Nkosi Yam, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Muphulusi, Ndikhokhele, Put Your Hand Medley, Umoya We Nkosi, Ngahlulele, Voices On the Wind, Ingoma, Oh! It is Jesus, Prayer for South Africa, Jerusalem, Ave Maria, Calvary, Grace

Review: This multitalented group has exploded onto the world music scene, wowing audiences with its virtuosity and passion. Drawn primarily from the churches and communities of South Africa's most famous township, the choir mixes earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, drumming, dancing, and irrepressible charisma for an experience that lifts the soul and stuns the senses. Filmed live in concert on their Australian tour, they sing a blend of traditional gospel and contemporary standards in English as well as some of the 10 other official languages of South Africa. Constantly in motion and dressed in vibrantly colored robes and textiles, with one superb soloist after another taking the lead, they offer up such highlights as "Asimbonanga," Jonny Clegg's tribute to Nelson Mandela; Peter Gabriel's "Biko"; "Mbube," the South African song that became "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"; the traditional ballad "I Bid You Goodnight"; Bob Marley's classic "One Love"; and Nkosi Sikelel'iAfrika, the South African National Anthem.

Songlist: Jesu Ngowtthu, Seteng Sediba, Izwi Lahlab Inhliziyo Yami, Ke Na Le Modisa, Ziyamazi'umelusi, One Love, River Jordan, This Little Light of Mine, If You Ever Needed The Lord, Kammatia, I'll Remember You, Jerusalem, Woza Moyam, Hakeleje, Table Music, Woza Meli Wami, Amazing Grace, Bayete, World in Union, Sisazoyivuma Le Ngoma

Review: The 25 mixed-voice Soweto Gospel Choir draws on the best talent from many churches and communities in and around Soweto, and is truly an "all-star" Gospel ensemble. Like Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the SGC has strong roots in traditional music and celebrates the vitality of South Africa with its powerful spiritual message. They've achieved breakthrough success in Europe (two sold-out shows at London's Royal Festival Hall!), Africa and Australia, and their sellout runs in 2003 and 2004 were the surprise hit of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. "Voices" is the SGC's debut recording, and it includes an irresistible mix of traditional South African secular and gospel songs, American gospel material such as "Amazing Grace," and stirring inspirational tunes such as "Many Rivers to Cross," sung in English as well as Zulu. Some tracks are breathtaking a cappella, while others are upbeat tracks with instrumental backing. A massive tour of the US is accompanying the launch of "Voices" in early 2005, most notably Carnegie Hall in NYC, Sanders Theatre in Boston and the Robert Frost Center in Atlanta. "Voices" is an impressive, powerful, joyous debut CD for the Soweto Gospel Choir!

Songlist: Jikela Emaweni, Vuma, Thina Simnqobile, Zanele, Paradise Road, Ahuna Ya Yswanag Le Jesu/Kammatia, Many Rivers to Cross/Going Down Jordan/Amen (Medley), Amazing Grace, Thula Baba, Sikulandile, Malaika, Hlanganani, Bayete, Jerusalem, Holy City/Bayete (Medley), African Dream

Review: Selected for the Ron Kean Multicultural Series, "African Processional" utilizes sounds from African folk songs and a joyful chorus emerges with an occasional solo interjection. "Ning Wendete" is a traditional folk song from Kenya and is a conversation between a man and a woman. "I love you, but you do not love me. How is that? If you do not love me, you had better tell me so." Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice. "The Coca Cola Song" is a playful contemporary African folksong and is a lot of fun to perform with layered vocal parts, African percussion, and humorous references to the choir members singing. Celebrative and highly rhythmic, "African Noel" shines with energy and excitment. Contrasting dynamics and optional percussion make this one a real creative and refreshing Christmas selection. Beautiful in its simplicity, your choir will have fun with this one!

Songlist: African Processional, E Oru O, Ning Wendete, O Sifuni Mungo, An African Song Game (The Coca Cola Song), African Noel

Review: The first two South African Folk Songs are in Shangani. The first seems to be in recognition of the arrival of the first white settlers off the west coast of Africa, ostensibly in the 17th century. The second, Tulan, Nimamele!, speaks for itself. They are both best done in a strong, boisterous fashion. Freedom Come is The closing movement of Bandari: Inside These Walls, a five-movement work encompassing a variety of African styles and combining Swahili and English texts. Freedom Come is written in the style of a South African freedom song; it creates an atmosphere in which hope can increase, healing can occur, and connections to our common humanity can be strengthened.

Songlist: Two South African Folk Songs, Kpanlongo, Freedom Come, Keep quiet and listen, See, coming at a distance, the German ship

Review: Two distinctive cultures combine in the unique choral change-of-pace known as 'An Afro-Celtic Diddle.; Featuring African percussion and Irish-inspired vocals, this delightful piece is fun, fun, fun! Disney's powerful African song, 'One by One.' will bring down the house. 'Dubula' is a folk song of the Xhosa people of South Africa. The style is boisterous, party-hardy and open-throated. The South African Zulu song, 'Womoweh (Mbube),' was first recorded in the early 1940s by Solomon Linda. Pete Seeger later transcribed the song for The Weavers. Once adapted to their own style, it become one of their greatest hits. The Five African songs in 'Hamba Lulu' have a rhythmic energy that propels the music and stirs the human spirit. With a variety of performance options, this collection will be an outstanding addition to your choral library. Stephen Hatfield's fun tune, 'African Celebration' is gem that can be used in any concert series needing that extra world music flavor, it comes complete with a pronunciation guide to help you and your choir learn the music!

Songlist: An Afro-Celtic Diddle, One by One, Dubula, Wimoweh (Mbube), Hamba Lulu, African Celebration

Review: "Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain" - The famed South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo led by Joseph Shabalala creates moments of transformative beauty with their unique sound and vivid imagery. Choirs will enjoy recreating this evocative work. "Harambee" - In Kenya, the Swahili word harambee has multiple meaning. When a group of people gather to complete a difficult physical task, they often say, "one, two, thre ... harambee!!" In this context the words means: "let's go, let's get it done." A special gathering to raise money for building a church or school is also called a harambee. These gatherings often feature long speeches, music and dancing. In the context of this composition, harambee means unity - working together. In a time of increased multi-cultural awareness, Bwana Awabariki offers an ideal piece of African culture for both churches and schools. The song emphasizes rhythm, blend, and African-style vocalism with broad, open chords and the familiar low, low bass part. This warm a cappella blessing would be especially effective with added percussion. This a cappella setting of a traditional South African praise song "Gabi, Gabi" just bursts with joyful energy. Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice.

Songlist: Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain, Harambee, Bwana Awabariki, Gabi, Gabi

Review: Includes transcriptions, two audio CDs with performance, pronunciation & practice tracks for each song, and instructional dance DVD. Also pronunciation guide to major South African languages, and introduction. Introduction by Matlakala Bopape.

Songlist: Acknowledgements, Introduction, An Explanation of Tonic Sol-fa Notation, Pronunciation Guide, Besuka, Di Bulegile Dikgoro, Ga Gona Ya Swanang Le Jesu, Matsogong, Melo Yelo, Merako Ya Jeriko, Mmatswale, Morabaraba, Moratiwa Waka, Noyana, Sebakanyana, Tate Modimo Yo Maatla, Thaba Chueu, Thato Ya Hao, Tonic Sol-fa, Verewoerd, Xihanyanomu, South African National Anthem, Track List for Accompanying CDs

Review: This CD is a collection of colourful music from South Africa. A number of tracks are religious in nature and are sung in multi-part harmony with heartfelt spiritual feeling and intensity. The musical styles presented here include Mbube, Zulu gospel, South Sotho choral and Tswana gospel, all representing different choral approaches and arrangements.

Songlist: Newcastle Five Roses, Ivangeli Loxolo, The Mighty Hot African Boys, Ntu Bhekani Brosthers, Bakgethoa Ba Morena, Enista, The Agents, S.D. Church Choir, New Castle Five Roses, Amahlokohloko, Enista, Ntu Bhekani Brothers, The Mighty Hot African Boys, Ivangeli Loxolo, The Agents

Review: This is an impressive two-CD set of some of the finest a cappella groups in Africa, including Ladysmith, Baswa Ba Tumelo (South African Zionist Church Choir), Zyac Choir (Zulu Church group), Maogane A Tumelo (N. Sotho Zion Church choir), Majalefa A Morena (South Sotho Choir), and ten others, including the Zulu a cappella group The King Star Brothers. There are 30 authentic tunes here, 15 on each side, sung by groups that are, individually, and collectively, the heart and soul of Africa. This is an important collection on many levels, and enjoyable for the listener fairly new to African music as well as to say, a Ladysmith fan who wants to hear some of the lesser-known, but often equally amazing, voices from Africa.

Songlist: Ladysmith Black Mambazo - Isigcino, Baswa Ba Tumelo - Mmele Pelo Le Moya, Zyac Choir - Ujesu Uyinkosi, Msogane A Tumelo - Orata Boetapele, Majalefa A Morena - Sengiyezwa, Simon Ngobeni Na Vatsonga Sisters - Masasani, Ngxalothi No Masevela - Uyadela, Church of Christ - Ngangiboshiwe, Amanxusa Ka Jesu - Ujesu Yedwa Nje, Zamo No Senta - Igobondela, Isabelo - Isithembiso, Laduma - Mehleng, Ntu Bhekani Brothers - Igazi, Masibuyele Kujehova Choir - E Getsemane, The King Star Brothers - Kwapminda Kwenzeka, Abafana Beseluleko - Ubani Ongasebenze Usathane, Isithembiso - Ubothandaza, Ubuhle Bezi Ntombi - Kushothina, Pietersberg Top Ten - Mmapule, Amahlokoloko - Ningakhali, Dilika - Abafana Bedilik, Genesisi Endlu Nkulu - Dwala Lami, MzikayifaniButhelezi - Ungizondelani, Pat Mabasa Na Shikange Sisters - Jelasi, Ivangelani Loxolo - Izwi Legazi, Izingame Zoma - Giyamthakatmi, Amaduduzo/Ronnie Bodibe - Intombi, Derrick Ndzimande - Vus'umoya Wami, Johnny Dimba - Baleka Tshwala

Review: This recording is a historical wonder, particularly valuable for putting the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo in context. One of the obvious distinctions of mbube groups were who sang soprano parts in the absence of women. The earliest of the recordings is from 1932 and the history extends to 1967, ending with the song, "Umama Lo" by Ladysmith Mambazo which is a transcription of their first radio appearance. They didn't record their first album until six years later. The other most notable recording is the 1939 recording of "Mbube" by Solomon Linda's Original Evening Birds. This was the song which became "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" when western artists tried to phonetically recreate what they heard from the record. Oh well. Other notable groups are the King Star Brothers, Crocodiles and the Shooting Stars.

Songlist: Jim Takata kanfani, hewul kwaqaqamba anathambo, ina ma wala, kuyekeleni kukule, mbube, ngazula emagumeni, anoku gonda, yek' emerabini, izindaba ezinkulu zika "Kawa", hamba stutubaker, ngi-e kaya, nsigoduke, akasangibhaleli, cothoza mfana, mus' ukuqubuda, umama lo

Review: Here are the roots of Ladysmith Black Mambazo & Solomon Linda's Evening Birds - it's a thorough documentation of the whole genre of Worker Choirs, featuring 7 different groups; included are full lyric transcriptions with translation into English. Fascinating fun stuff!

Songlist: Go Girl, Why are you Happy?, She no Longer Writes to Me, I Have Discovered Wonders, I Want Money, Come Back Africa?, Greetings Girl, Be Quiet my Love, You are Inconsistent like a Witchdoctor, Here at iSandlwana, We Shall See, Lion, Greetings to you Father

Review: The jubilant sounds from Zambian Acappella pour forth on from Africa with Love. On this CD the group sings many American spirituals and African sacred songs. In addition to their great singing, the group also accompanies themselves with percussion. "Thulalia Lele" is especially enjoyable. These pieces, arranged by Daniel Mwanza, will have you dancing along.

Songlist: Thulalila Lele, Siyahamba, Soon and Very Soon, Standing Upon the Mountain, Ndipo Ambuye Yesu, Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, Nkabalondelanga ba Yesu, Jesus Loves Me Even, Hallelujah Amen, The Lord is My Light