Johnny Dyani

Good morning.

Today we’re listening to Johnny Dyani, a South African bassist and pianist. Thank you to Megan Pillow for the recommendation. Born in 1945 in Eastern Cape, he joined the integrated free jazz band The Blue Notes in the early ‘60s.¹ That sextet’s mere existence was a protest of apartheid, smoke from which led the group to leave the country for Europe later in the decade. In the ‘70s Dyani began putting out albums under his own name. We’re playing two of those records: 1979’s Song for Biko, named for activist Steve Biko, and 1978’s Witchdoctor’s Son.

Song for Biko - Johnny Dyani (60m, no vocals)
Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music / Amazon Music / Tidal

Witchdoctor’s Son - Johnny Dyani (70m, Dyani sings on tracks 2 and 9)
Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music / Amazon Music / Tidal

Have a great Thursday.

1. Wikipedia