Founded in New York by David Byrne in 1988, Luaka Bop is a renowned label that has continued to bring captivating music from around the world to listeners, alongside label manager Yale Evelev.
Drawing from the label’s diverse releases and compilation tracks spanning Brazil, Cuba, Africa, Asia, psychedelia, gospel, and beyond, we’ve put together a 90-minute selection of “world meets contemporary” sounds that sit comfortably alongside Byrne’s solo work.
Revisiting the label’s visionary approach and achievements as a curator—having helped bring renewed attention and global recognition to countless artists—we hope this playlist serves as an entry point for further exploration into the world of Luaka Bop.
Luaka Bop by David Byrne
1. Andar com Fé / Gilberto Gil
2. O Fole Roncou / Luiz Gonzaga
3. Querubim / Dominguinhos
4. Um Canto de Afoxé para o Bloco do Ilê / Caetano Veloso
5. Cabañas / Los de Abajo
6. Somebody / Janka Nabay & The Bubu Gang
7. Ogodô, Ano 2000 / Tom Zé
8. Aht Uh Mi Hed / Shuggie Otis
9. Better Change Your Mind / William Onyeabor
10. African Sunset / Zap Mama
11. Celebration / Shoukichi Kina
12. Crack Up / A.R. Kane
13. Relax / Kassin
14. Shanti Luz / Domenico Lancellotti
15. Para Xó / Moreno + 2 (Moreno Veloso)
16. Baby (1971) / Os Mutantes
17. Rainha Ginga / Waldemar Bastos
18. Reina de África / Susana Baca
19. Minha Rosa / Márcio Local
20. Horses / CQMD (Ceux Qui Marchent Debout)
21. Brujería / King Changó
22. Anything You Sow / William Onyeabor
Playlist and cover art by Mikiya Tanaka (ELLA RECORDS)
PROMOTIONAL ONLY
