of Africa by Johnny Clegg and Juluka was one of those songs that came apparently out of nowhere to appear on American radio staions back in the 80s . In fact, Johnny Clegg was becoming the leading voice against Apartheid in South Africa itself, no small feat for a transplanted Englishman of the Hebrew persuasion. As the white co-leader of a multi-racial band, Johnny had to play street corners, impromptu parties and unannounced small venues in order to play at all in the racially divided world of Botha's South Africa. He had learned the styles, language, dances and music of the Zulu people and injected some English lyrics that inevitably yearned for the day of freedom he could feel coming. Years later he shared the stage with Nelson Mandela to sing "Dela" and "Assimboanga" to him. Although considered a national treasure in France, Clegg remains virtually unknown in the US despite Jimmy Buffet covering a tune or two of his. Albums with Juluka, its followup band Savuka and occasional gigs with Ladysmith Black Mambazo among others have kept Mr. Clegg busy right up to this day. If you have not checked him out maybe this teaser will encourage you to do so.
with Nelson Mandela
and he considered himself first and foremost a dancer