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The Friday Documentary: A Short History Of Five Notes

The Documentary: 25/02/2011

25/02/2011

BBC World Service - The Documentary, 25/02/2011

This is the story of the clave, a five note rhythm that has changed musical history

The five note clave is a simple rhythm that originated in Africa, and eventually found its way into salsa, soul and rock n roll.

This is the story of a five note rhythm that has changed musical history.

Originally carried by slaves from Africa to the Caribbean hundreds of years ago, these five notes have become part of the DNA of modern music – influencing everything from soul and cuban music, to afrobeat and rock and roll.

In A Short History of Five Notes for the BBC World Service, music journalist Rita Ray traces the history of the five notes back to their origins in west Africa, visiting traditional drummers in Ghana.

She also hears from legendary latin, soul and rock musicians from around the world, including The Animals lead singer Eric Burdon, Cuban jazz pianist Omar Sosa, James Brown's drummer Jabo Starks, and Fela Kuti conga player JB Korantang Crentisl.

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