The albums that define
world music.
Our picks for where to start with world music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top world music artists
Start with one of these.
The world music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Paul Simon
Graceland
A vibrant fusion of American folk rock and South African musical styles creates an infectious, rhythmic tapestry.
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George Harrison
Dark Horse
A blend of introspective balladry and lively rock, reflecting Harrison's personal and spiritual journeys.
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Jovanotti
OYEAH
An eclectic blend of hip-hop, folk, and world music rhythms that radiate positivity and vibrancy.
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Jovanotti
Lorenzo 2002 – Il quinto mondo
A vibrant fusion of pop, hip-hop, and world music, imbued with introspective lyrics and infectious rhythms.
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Charles Aznavour
Qui ?
A melodic tapestry of romantic longing woven through rich orchestration and Aznavour's emotive vocals.
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Charles Aznavour
Paris — Palais des Congrès: Intégrale du spectacle
A heartfelt blend of chanson and jazz, celebrating love and nostalgia with Aznavour's rich baritone.
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George Harrison
Beware of ABKCO!
A reflective collection of acoustic renditions showcasing Harrison's introspective songwriting and melodic craftsmanship.
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Mike Oldfield
The Killing Fields
A haunting blend of orchestral arrangements and ambient textures, reflecting the tragic narrative of war.
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Mike Oldfield
Amarok
A sprawling odyssey of sound, blending ethereal melodies with intricate rhythms and a myriad of global influences.
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Anggun
Chrysalis
A vibrant fusion of pop and world music, intertwining heartfelt lyrics with lush melodies and rhythmic undercurrents.
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Anggun
Luminescence
A vibrant fusion of pop and world music, where heartfelt melodies intertwine with rich instrumental textures.
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Shakira
Fijación Oral, Vol. 1
A vibrant fusion of Latin rhythms and pop sensibilities, infused with Shakira's distinctive voice and emotive storytelling.
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Shakira
Magia
A youthful blend of Latin pop and rock, infused with Shakira's captivating vocal charm and poetic lyricism.
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Paul Simon
The Rhythm of the Saints
A vibrant fusion of world rhythms and introspective lyrics that explore themes of connection and belonging.
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Nolwenn Leroy
Nolwenn
A captivating blend of folk-pop melodies and heartfelt lyrics rooted in French traditions.
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Nolwenn Leroy
Le Cheshire Cat et moi
A whimsical blend of folk-pop and vibrant melodies, weaving personal narratives with a touch of French charm.
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Herbie Mann
Richard Rodgers’ No Strings. An After‐Theatre Version
A vibrant blend of jazz and Broadway, radiating warmth and sophistication with each melodic twist.
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Herbie Mann
Flute Soufflé
A vibrant fusion of jazz and world music, characterized by expressive flute melodies and rich rhythmic textures.
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Cornelius
96/69
A kaleidoscopic blend of genres, merging experimental rock with playful pop and world influences.
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Cornelius
Sensuous
A kaleidoscopic blend of eclectic sounds, intricate rhythms, and melodic experimentation that defies genre boundaries.
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Leonard Cohen
Lone Ranger
A reflective tapestry of Cohen's gravelly voice intertwined with sparse instrumentals and poetic storytelling.
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Leonard Cohen
So Long, Marianne
A bittersweet blend of introspective lyrics and haunting melodies that encapsulate love and loss.
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