I’ve spent years learning and teaching kora to students worldwide, and I’ll be honest: most beginners approach this instrument completely wrong. They buy a beautiful 21-string harp-lute thinking it works like a piano, then struggle for weeks trying to force conventional harp techniques that don’t work. The truth is, playing authentic kora requires understanding the […]
I’ve spent years mastering Afra music production, and I’ll tell you straight: most producers get the basics wrong. Creating authentic Afra tracks isn’t about expensive gear or complicated setups. It’s about understanding polyrhythmic layers, nailing your percussion foundation, and blending traditional African rhythms with modern production tools. This guide shares my exact production methodology, tested […]
Learning African music feels difficult because traditional Western notation systems fail to capture complex polyrhythmic patterns, cultural context gets lost in academic settings, and most educational resources lack authentic teaching methods rooted in African musical traditions. The Core Problem: Western Musical Framework Limitations Standard Western notation cannot represent African musical complexity accurately. African music operates […]
Beginners might want to start with a kalimba since it is a relatively simple instrument to learn how to play. The Kalimba is generally considered more beginner-friendly, while mbira offers a more traditional African sound experience. Both instruments share similar playing techniques but differ in complexity, tuning, and cultural applications. What Makes Kalimba and Mbira […]
Your African vocal recordings sound bad because of poor mic placement, inadequate room treatment, incorrect gain staging, and lack of proper vocal preparation. Most recording problems stem from technical issues that can be fixed with simple adjustments to equipment setup and recording techniques. These 7 proven fixes will transform your vocal recordings from amateur to […]
You can achieve Abbey Road’s legendary sound quality for under $500 by focusing on four key elements: acoustic treatment ($150), quality microphones ($180), audio interface ($120), and studio monitors or headphones ($50). Abbey Road takes you through seven essential pieces of studio equipment required to get you up and running, and professional home studios can […]
Muddy Afrobeat mixes happen when low-mid frequencies between 150Hz and 400Hz clash, creating unclear bass and percussion sounds. Most producers fix this by cutting problem frequencies, separating bass elements, and applying strategic EQ techniques that restore clarity without losing the genre’s signature warmth. Afrobeat music relies heavily on complex percussion patterns, deep bass lines, and […]
The business of Afro music generates billions in global revenue through streaming platforms, record labels, and live performances. African music industry was valued at $343 million in 2021 and is projected to grow to $500 million by 2025, while Afrobeats generated approximately $100 million in global revenue in 2023. Artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and […]
Rhythms of Afro Music feature polyrhythmic patterns where multiple contrasting rhythms interlock simultaneously. These complex rhythmic structures form the foundation of African musical traditions, using cross-beats, syncopation, and time signature combinations like 12/8 over 4/4 to create dynamic, layered soundscapes that inspire modern genres worldwide. What Are Polyrhythmic Patterns in African Music Polyrhythmic patterns combine […]
Traditional African instruments represent the heartbeat of African culture, carrying ancient rhythms and melodies across 54 countries. These handcrafted musical tools connect communities through ceremonial rituals, storytelling, and spiritual practices that span thousands of years. Main Categories of Traditional African Instruments African musical instruments fall into four primary categories based on sound production methods. Each […]
