Mali: The Music of Life Video(VHS/DVD)

Mali: The Music of Life Video(VHS/DVD). This program features the music of Mali, where every musician is a poet who uses a fusion of traditional Mandika style and modern rhythm and blues to tell a story. Traditional instruments, such as the balafon, are combined with modern instruments to produce songs in praise of guests at family celebrations, and songs urging young people to develop good values and to stand up to oppression. From rural villages to modern nightclubs, from folk songs to sophisticated African jazz, all of the music is discussed as an extension of traditional Mali rhythms, melodies, and themes. Two prominent women singers discuss their careers. A BBC Production. (English subtitles, 60 minutes)