“Pata Pata” (1967) was performed by the South African Musician Miriam Makeba. Makeba worked within the Amapiano genre, which originated in South African in 2012. It is a genre of dance music that is heavily influenced by deep house, jazz, and lounge music. Perhaps one of the most notable and profound impacts Makeba had on the musical world was her introduction of African music to the Western world.

          In the song the lead singing is performed by Makeba herself, and there are background singers singing alongside her. There are both English and Xhosa lyrics in the piece. The “clicking” sound that may sound more unique to the Western ear is itself a part of the Xhosa language.

          I have had an interest in South African history and culture for many years, so I decided to research music specifically from South Africa. During my research I learned of Miriam Makeba and how popular she was. Therefore, I thought she would be a good artist to highlight.

“Pata Pata” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNeP3hrm__k