What makes Autobiography by Abdullah Ibrahim notable?

'Autobiography' is notable for its poignant blending of traditional South African sounds with jazz elements, which helped elevate the profile of Cape Jazz globally. It received critical acclaim for its composition and cultural significance, particularly within the context of post-apartheid South Africa, influencing subsequent generations of musicians in the genre. Released in 1978, 'Autobiography' marked a significant moment in Abdullah Ibrahim's career following his international acclaim from the previous decade. This album showcased his deepening exploration of South African identity through music, building on the success of his earlier works like 'Mannenberg' and solidifying his role as a key figure in the Cape Jazz movement.

How many songs are on Autobiography?

Autobiography has 13 tracks, running approximately 76 minutes.

Autobiography

Abdullah Ibrahim · 1978

76 min · 13 tracks · bebop · Afro-jazz · cape jazz

A rich tapestry of jazz infused with African rhythms and soulful melodies unfolds throughout this evocative album.

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Tracklist

13 tracks·76:29

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 What Really Happened in the Cornfields Is That the Birds Made Musical All the Day and So I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart at Duke's Place (Anthem for the New Nations) Standout 5:11
2 Bilal 3:46
3 Gwitdza / Yukio-Khalifia / Intro Liberation Dance Standout 7:14
4 African Marketplace / Tokai / Ilanga / African Sun 9:03
5 The Dream 2:30
6 Liberation Dance 2:18
7 Did You Hear That Sound? / Our Son Tsakwe / The Wedding / I Surrender Dear / One Day When We Were Young 12:32
8 Drop Me Off in Harlem 1:13
9 Take the 'A' Train / Coming on the Hudson / Moniebah 9:00
10 Little Boy 2:30
11 Cherry 2:04
12 Ismael - Mannenberg / Children of Africa/Banyana / Peace Salaam / Anthem for the New Nations Standout 13:41
13 Khoisan 5:27