Watch Acoustic Ancestry

Acoustic Ancestry is a musical travelogue series that explores the ancestral roots of African music. It is an original production of The Africa Channel, with episodes that showcase music from various regions across the African continent. The show features a blend of music, culture, and history, as it traces the evolution of African music from ancient times to modern-day.

Each episode of Acoustic Ancestry focuses on a specific genre or era of African music, highlighting its unique rhythms, melodies, and cultural significance. Viewers will be treated to a diverse range of musical styles, from traditional drumming and chanting to contemporary fusion, jazz, and pop. Along the way, the hosts and experts delve into the history and cultural context of each musical genre, exploring the social and political forces that shaped its development over time.

One of the standout features of Acoustic Ancestry is the way it showcases the raw, organic sound of African music. Unlike many modern recordings, which are heavily produced and polished with studio effects, the music featured in the show is often performed using acoustic instruments and traditional techniques. This gives viewers a chance to hear the music in its purest form, as it was intended to be heard by generations of African musicians and audiences.

While music is the primary focus of the show, Acoustic Ancestry also offers insights into the wider cultural and historical context of African music. Episodes often include interviews with experts in African history, culture, and musicology, who shed light on the social and political factors that shaped the music of different regions and eras. Through these conversations, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the richness, complexity, and diversity of African culture, as well as the ways in which music has been intertwined with Africa's past and present.

In addition to its cultural and historical insights, Acoustic Ancestry is also a celebration of the beauty and power of African music itself. The show features talented musicians from across the continent, who perform with passion, energy, and skill. Their performances are often breathtaking, showcasing the incredible range of African music, from gentle, haunting ballads to fiery, rhythmic dances. Whether viewers are longtime fans of African music or new to the genre, Acoustic Ancestry is sure to leave them inspired, entertained, and deeply moved.

Overall, Acoustic Ancestry is a one-of-a-kind musical journey that invites viewers to explore the roots of Africa's rich musical heritage. Through its diverse range of musical genres and expert insights, the show offers a glimpse into the deep, complex, and fascinating history of African music. Whether viewers are music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, or simply curious about the continent of Africa, Acoustic Ancestry is a must-see series that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Acoustic Ancestry is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between and on The Africa Channel