The global music scene is constantly evolving, and at the forefront of this evolution is “Afropean” music – a vibrant fusion of West African traditions and European sensibilities. We sat down with Dr. Aris Thorne, a leading ethnomusicologist specializing in contemporary African music, to delve deeper into this captivating genre and explore the artists who are shaping its future.

Decoding the Sound: An Interview with Dr. Aris Thorne

TIME.news: dr. Thorne,thank you for joining us. For our readers who might be unfamiliar, could you define “Afropean” music and explain what makes it so distinct?
Dr.Aris Thorne: It’s my pleasure. Afropean music isn’t a rigid genre, but rather a descriptor for music created by artists who draw deeply from both their African and European heritages. It’s a blending of sounds, rhythms, and cultural perspectives. You’ll frequently enough hear traditional African instruments interwoven with elements of jazz, soul, folk, electronic music, and other Western genres. The distinctiveness comes from this very interplay – the push and pull between these two rich musical landscapes, resulting in something entirely new and exciting. Think of it as cultural conversation expressed through sound.
TIME.news: The article highlights Laura Prince and her album, Adjoko. how does she embody this Afropean spirit, and what can listeners expect from her music?
Dr. Aris Thorne: Laura Prince is a fantastic example. Born to a Togolese father and a French mother, she naturally embodies this fusion. Adjoko is a beautiful exploration of her identity,especially her Togolese heritage. She’s not just singing *about* her roots; she’s actively engaging with them. She immersed herself in the customary chants of Ouidah, Benin, and then masterfully blends those ancient sounds with contemporary jazz, soul, and pop. Listeners can expect a truly authentic and emotionally resonant experience. Her song “I Want to Go” perfectly captures this yearning for connection to one’s ancestry, and I think that’s why it’s striking a chord with so many people.
TIME.news: Awa Ly’s upcoming album, Essence & Elements, also sounds intriguing, focusing on an “introspective and meditative” journey. What’s unique about her approach?
Dr. Aris Thorne: Awa Ly offers a more introspective take on the Afropean experience. Her Senegalese heritage informs her music, but her album, *Essence & Elements,* is particularly interesting because of its elemental approach.She collaborated with different producers, each representing a natural element – fire, earth, air, and water – to create distinct sonic textures. This adds unbelievable depth to her music, and it’s a really creative way to explore themes of identity, culture, and the natural world. This is sophisticated musical storytelling.
TIME.news: The article mentions that Senegalese-Malian actress Aïssa Maïga is directing the music videos for Awa ly’s album. How significant is the visual component in enhancing the impact of Afropean music?
Dr. Aris Thorne: The visual component is crucial. Music videos offer artists a powerful platform to express their cultural identity, artistic vision, and the stories behind their songs. Aïssa Maïga’s involvement is particularly exciting as she brings her own unique viewpoint as a filmmaker with strong ties to both Senegal and Mali. Her visual storytelling will undoubtedly enrich the listening experience and help viewers connect with the music on a deeper level.
TIME.news: What advice would you give to readers who are interested in exploring Afropean music further? Are there any key elements they should listen out for?
Dr. Aris Thorne: My biggest piece of advice is to be open-minded and curious! Don’t be afraid to explore artists from different countries and with different styles. Pay close attention to the instrumentation. Notice how traditional African instruments like the kora,djembe,or balafon are integrated with Western arrangements. Listen for the rhythmic patterns – the complex polyrhythms that are so characteristic of West African music.And most importantly, listen to the stories being told – the themes of identity, heritage, connection, and cultural exchange. Platforms like Spotify,apple Music,and Bandcamp are great resources for discovering new Afropean artists.Also, seek out independent music blogs and radio stations that specialize in world music.
TIME.news: Dr. Thorne, what do you see as the future of Afropean music?
Dr. Aris Thorne: I believe Afropean music has a very luminous future! It’s a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the boundless creativity of artists who are pushing the boundaries of genre. As more artists embrace their hybrid identities and experiment with new sounds, we’ll see even more innovative and captivating music emerge. And as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, I think Afropean music will continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, offering a unique and meaningful perspective on the human experience. It’s more than just music; it’s a cultural movement.