Soundway Records has been instrumental in unearthing and reviving forgotten global music scenes, shining a spotlight on hidden gems from Africa, Asia, and beyond. Their compilations have allowed listeners worldwide to experience a rich tapestry of cultural sounds, reintroducing music that was once on the verge of extinction. In this article, we will explore some of Soundway Records' most impactful compilations and their cultural significance.

Ghana Soundz

Soundway Records’ first-ever compilation, Ghana Soundz, holds a special place in the label’s history. Released in the early 2000s, this collection of rare Afro-beat, Afro-funk, and Afro-fusion tracks encapsulates the vibrant energy of 1970s Accra. The music is a testament to the fusion of local highlife rhythms with international influences from Fela Kuti, James Brown, and Santana. These sounds had almost faded into obscurity, but thanks to Soundway’s meticulous research, they were brought back to life.

One track, in particular, Oscar Sulley’s Bukom Mashie, gained worldwide recognition after being featured in the Hollywood film The Last King of Scotland. The compilation not only preserved this forgotten era but also introduced a new generation of listeners to the bold sounds of 1970s Ghana.

Doing It in Lagos: Boogie, Pop & Disco in 1980's Nigeria

Another key compilation from Soundway Records is Doing It in Lagos, which dives into the bustling Nigerian pop music and club culture of the early 1980s. Nigeria’s economic boom and the country’s vibrant music scene during this era created a unique fusion of disco, boogie, and pop. As Nigerian artists began to turn away from the Afro-centric sounds of the previous decade, they embraced a more Americanized aesthetic, reflecting the glossy, brash world of 1980s pop culture.

This compilation captures that transition, with its mix of deep disco cuts, falsetto vocals, and synth-driven tracks. It highlights how Nigeria’s music industry evolved alongside global trends while maintaining its distinctive local flavor. Doing It in Lagos offers a window into a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s musical history, one where the echoes of American soul, disco, and boogie permeated the airwaves of Lagos.

Ghana Special: Modern Highlife, Afro-Sounds & Ghanaian Blues 1968-81

Following the success of Ghana Soundz, Soundway Records expanded its exploration of Ghana’s musical heritage with Ghana Special: Modern Highlife, Afro-Sounds & Ghanaian Blues 1968-81. This compilation showcases thirty-three tracks that span over a decade of Ghanaian music, blending the funky rhythms of highlife with traditional blues and Afro-sounds.

The compilation reflects nearly ten years of research, with Soundway's founder Miles Cleret traveling across Ghana to track down rare recordings and forgotten musicians. This project offers a deeper exploration into the country’s musical history, presenting tracks that had previously existed only in personal collections or the memories of the artists themselves.

Ritmo Fantasía: Balearic Spanish Synth-Pop, Boogie, and House (1982-1992)

Ritmo Fantasía, compiled by DJ Trujillo, presents an eclectic mix of Spanish underground music from the 1980s and early 1990s. With influences ranging from bleep and hip-house to electro and Iberian pop, this compilation brings to light the hidden sounds of Spain's Balearic club culture. It offers a fresh perspective on Spain’s music scene during this time, with tracks that were often self-released or produced by short-lived labels.

DJ Trujillo’s decade-long search for these tracks is a testament to Soundway Records' dedication to reviving lost music. The result is a collection of tracks that represent a vibrant but often overlooked chapter of Spanish music history, infused with Balearic rhythms and experimental synth sounds.

Padang Moonrise: The Birth of the Modern Indonesian Recording Industry (1955-69)

The compilation Padang Moonrise transports listeners to post-colonial Indonesia, where traditional Javanese and Sumatran sounds began blending with jazz, Afro-Latin music, and American rock & roll. This unique fusion of styles reflects the emerging national identity of Indonesia, with musicians reimagining traditional music to reflect the country’s newfound independence.

Padang Moonrise brings together rare recordings from a critical time in Indonesian history, offering a glimpse into a musical landscape that has largely remained hidden from the outside world. These tracks, carefully selected and compiled by Soundway Records, document the birth of modern Indonesian music, preserving a fascinating cultural moment for future generations.

Kenya Special: Selected East African Recordings from the 1970s & 1980s

Kenya Special takes us to East Africa, where the music scene was dominated by benga, Afrobeat, and Congolese rumba. This compilation is a treasure trove of rare recordings, many of which were originally released only on small-run 45rpm singles. Soundway Records assembled this collection over two years, gathering unique and innovative tracks that highlight the diversity of Kenya’s musical landscape in the 1970s and 1980s.

From the fast, intricate guitar work of benga to the genre-bending sounds of Nairobi’s clubs, Kenya Special paints a vivid picture of East Africa’s thriving music scene. The compilation is a reminder of how Kenyan musicians blended influences from across Africa and the world to create something truly their own.

The Sound of Siam, Vol. 2: Journey to 1970s Thailand

The second volume of The Sound of Siam focuses on the rich musical traditions of North-East Thailand, where Molam and Luk Thung Isan music flourished. This compilation continues Soundway Records’ journey into the lesser-known corners of Southeast Asia, bringing attention to the hypnotic riffs, electrified rhythms, and heartfelt vocals of Thailand’s 1970s music scene.

While The Sound of Siam introduced many listeners to the vibrant sounds of modern Thai music, this second volume delves deeper into the artistry and innovation of Thailand’s musical heritage. It’s a testament to Soundway’s commitment to exploring the world’s forgotten music scenes and sharing their treasures with a global audience.

Spotlight on Steve Monite: Only You

A landmark release in Soundway's catalog is the reissue of Steve Monite's debut album Only You. Originally released in 1984, the album was largely overlooked at the time but has since resurfaced, becoming a cultural touchstone. Monite's innovative blend of Nigerian boogie and electro-funk, guided by the visionary producer Nkono Teles, set the stage for a fresh sound that resonated with a generation seeking excitement amidst Nigeria's changing socio-political landscape.

Today, Only You is celebrated for its profound impact on contemporary music. This officially licensed reissue serves as a testament to Soundway's commitment to honouring and reviving musical legacies, ensuring that Monite's contributions continue to inspire and reach new audiences around the globe.

 

Photo credit: Soundway Records