Traditional Music of Botswana, Africa - The Album
Botswanan traditional music from the Smithsonian Folkways label.
The Smithsonian Folkways label has no shortage of African traditional music. No surprises there. There are 60 releases listed just for Southern Africa.
Since I've been listening to a lot of music from Botswana lately, I thought I'd take Traditional Music of Botswana, Africa: A Journey with Tape Recorder along Southern Botswana from Mochudi to Kang for a spin. Buy it here or listen on YouTube.
Here's the lowdown:
"While traveling across Botswana in 1983, ethnomusicologist Elizabeth N. Wood captured music from Tswana–Sotho tribal descendants and Basarwa Bushmen, whose songs cover themes such as war, hunting, farming, school, and religion. Singing styles range from unison to harmony to call–and–response and are often accompanied by clapping and stomping, with an occasional whistle or drum. Instrumental tracks feature instruments such as the mbira (thumb piano) and lengope (mouth bow). Liner notes include a description of Botswana’s geography, ethnic groups, music, and dance. Lyrics and track notes are also included."