What makes Third World Child by Savuka notable?

Third World Child is notable for its cultural significance during the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, particularly with tracks like Asimbonanga, which directly references Nelson Mandela. The album solidified Savuka's presence on the global music stage, earning critical acclaim and contributing to the world music genre's popularity. Released in 1987, Third World Child was Savuka's second album, following their debut album, Voices of the Rainbow. At this point in their career, they had already begun to establish a distinctive sound that blended traditional South African music with contemporary styles, gaining attention both locally and internationally.

Who is Third World Child for?

Third World Child works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective flow, vibrant rhythms for joyful reflection and thoughtful listening during commutes.

How many songs are on Third World Child?

Third World Child has 10 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Third World Child

Savuka · 1987

43 min · 10 tracks · world music

A vibrant fusion of African rhythms and rock influences, celebrating cultural identity with deeply emotive vocals.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Asimbonanga (Mandela) — This track serves as a poignant tribute to Nelson Mandela, using haunting melodies to evoke the struggles against apartheid while rallying listeners around hope and resilience.
→
Scatterlings of Africa — As one of the most recognizable tracks from the album, it encapsulates themes of diaspora and belonging through its infectious rhythm and evocative lyrics.
→
Great Heart — This song showcases Savuka's ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with rich musicality, highlighting their commitment to social issues while maintaining an uplifting spirit.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective flow
vibrant rhythms for joyful reflection
thoughtful listening during commutes
uplifting energy for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1987, Third World Child was Savuka's second album, following their debut album, Voices of the Rainbow. At this point in their career, they had already begun to establish a distinctive sound that blended traditional South African music with contemporary styles, gaining attention both locally and internationally.
Stylistic neighbors: Deep Forest· Jesse Cook· Šaban Bajramović

Tracklist

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

1 Are You Ready? 4:02
2 Asimbonanga (Mandela) 4:51
3 Giyana 4:33
4 Scatterlings of Africa 3:51
5 Great Heart 4:24
6 Missing 4:21
7 Ring on Her Finger 4:07
8 Third World Child 4:16
9 Berlin Wall 4:27
10 Don't Walk Away 4:24

What to play next

Full Savuka discography Artists like Savuka

world music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata