Hello, dear listener,
At this time of year, I reflect on the many blessings in my life - and how we share gifts with each other during this season of giving. And I am hoping you will find it in your heart to share a gift with us - to help us meet our year-end goals here at Afropop Worldwide. We have already raised $15,000 towards our goal of $50,000. Every dollar counts. Your gift will make a difference.
Growing up in French-speaking Cameroon, I observed all kinds of people celebrating - with traditional Christmas carols served up with the vibe, vocals and rhythms of rural West Africa. I also saw people practicing their ancient spiritual folkways. Music is a huge part throughout all celebrations everywhere in Africa. Beaucoup d'inspiration!
My life has been steeped in African music, and it is a blessing! As you may know from our show "Afropop Worldwide: The Origin Story," 30 years ago - after a career producing African music in France and the U.S. - I joined up with Sean and Banning to found the new radio series Afropop Worldwide. And we have been recognized since by our peers as a national treasure, winning a prestigious Peabody Award, and gaining much acclaim for our unique contribution to understanding the role of African music in the world.
We are so proud of your support. You have helped make all of this possible. Thank you!
This season we have set a goal to raise $50,000 by December 31. Dedicated supporters have already committed $15,000, and we are well on our way to our goal. If you feel as I do - that Afropop Worldwide delivers a unique perspective on established and new artists, and musical movements of the African diaspora and Africa itself - please help us meet our goal with a tax-deductible donation.
We can't wait to share our newest adventures with you. Our producer, reggae historian David Katz, is planning an intrepid trip to a remote corner of northern Brazil, São Luís do Maranhão, where an unusual sound-system culture has raised classic roots reggae to a near-divine status. The town recently opened a reggae museum. It's a fascinating world out of time, legendary among Brazilian music and reggae aficionados, but rarely covered. Afropop will have an exclusive on a unique and surprising story. Meanwhile, Banning is heading to Zulu country in South Africa, then to Madagascar and Reunion Island. So we have much to look forward to on the airwaves in 2019.
Where else can you learn about the hottest trends in African and the diaspora but right here, on Afropop Worldwide?
Who else has been your faithful companion over 30 years of groundbreaking music journalism, serving in-depth interviews and introducing unsung heroes of the Afropop scene as well as giants in their prime?
On behalf of Banning, Sean and myself, and all the amazing producers, staff, and contributors of Afropop Worldwide, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support.
In honor of our 30 years together, plus 30 more years to come, please consider making a tax-deductible gift.
With warm holiday greetings,
Ton ami, Georges, (AKA Maxi Voom Voom!)
