Hugh Masekela, Siparia Deltones - Siparia to Soweto (2023)

Siparia to Soweto is an album that represents a coming together, an amalgamation of people, experiences and culture. It is the melding of different but unique flavors into one; a celebration of the African diaspora’s rich diversity. This momentous production is a reflection of Hugh Masekela’s great love of travel, musical adventure, and collaboration. Before his passing, the South African icon paid a visit to Trinidad & Tobago where he performed and collaborated with the Siparia Deltones Steel Orchestra. During his month-long residency Masekela worked extensively with one of the world’s premiere steel pannists, Akinola Sennon, to record a large catalogue of original compositions and arrangements scored by the great Carlton ‘Zanda’ Alexander. The album’s lead single “The Meeting Place,” features another native of Siparia, “King of Soca,” Machel Montano, who eventually joined forces with the team as an executive producer. The eagerly awaited album features 13 songs comprising a collection of Caribbean classics with African inspirations.