South Africa

"The larger matter at hand here is that the Texas governor is trying to wind up fears around COVID and around this new strain of COVID to justify his anti-asylum and anti-migrant policies in South Texas,” said Ari Sawyer with Human Rights Watch.

Derek Gripper's exploration of West African kora music has produced two acclaimed albums — and, he says, a better understanding of the classical music he played as a kid.

A bright new star from South Africa, Yannick Ilunga doesn't need to be sonically tethered to his African roots to gather notice in rock and electronic-music circles.

President Jacob Zuma led Freedom Day celebrations in Pretoria Sunday, as South Africa marked the 20th anniversary of democratic rule. Back in 1994, voters sent Nelson Mandela to the presidency.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo's Always With Us, remembers the life and voice of Nellie Shabalala, the late wife of the group's vocal leader.

South Africa's award-winning Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been singing its message of peace and unity for 50 years. The group joins host Michel Martin for a special performance chat.

South African musician Vusi Mahlasela's work was born out of the struggle against apartheid. His song "When You Come Back" was performed at Mandela's 1994 inauguration and was written to the political exiles who escaped South Africa. Mahlasela shares his memories with host Michel Martin.

It's worth pausing to consider not only the legacy and achievements of former South African president Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, but also the rich musical associations of his life.

Morning Edition reports on the music that sustained Nelson Mandela and other members of the anti-apartheid movement while they were in a South African prison. Many of them were huge reggae fans.

A new movie captures the story of one of the world's great leaders. It's a classic biopic of a towering figure: Nelson Mandela. And it takes audiences through the many chapters of his sweeping life. Morning Edition's Renee Montagne talks to Idris Elba about playing the legendary South African leader.