Joe Boyd's journey through global music in 'And the Roots of Rhythm Remain'

A deep dive into the evolution of music and its cultural impact.

Illustration by Daniel Freytag

By Hayu Andini and Adila Ghina

And the Roots of Rhythm Remain: A Journey Through Global Music, by Joe Boyd

Joe Boyd’s And the Roots of Rhythm Remain: A Journey Through Global Music is a comprehensive exploration of how music transcends boundaries and defies limitations. Spanning nearly 900 pages, Boyd’s work is an ode to the unstoppable force of music and its ability to unite cultures. This in-depth account chronicles his personal experiences with world music, the artists who defined it, and the challenges that have reshaped its evolution over time.

Boyd, a renowned music producer and author, brings his vast knowledge and decades of experience to this ambitious project. His earlier memoir, White Bicycles: Making Music in the 1960s, offered readers a glimpse into the transformative period of British folk-rock and the electric revolution spearheaded by Bob Dylan. With And the Roots of Rhythm Remain, Boyd shifts focus to the global stage, exploring how music continues to thrive despite political, cultural, and technological upheavals.

The fascination with “world music” gained momentum in the 1980s, with artists like Paul Simon and David Byrne bringing global sounds to Western audiences. Boyd recounts the pivotal moments that shaped this movement, weaving in anecdotes from his encounters with iconic musicians. One notable story involves Simon’s creation of Graceland, a landmark 1986 album recorded with South African musicians during apartheid. Boyd recalls Simon sharing the backing tracks at a party in 1985, foreshadowing the album’s cultural significance.

Boyd’s reflections are steeped in history, from his work with Hannibal Records—home to groundbreaking collaborations like New Ancient Strings by Ballaké Sissoko and Toumani Diabaté—to his role in popularizing Hungarian singer Márta Sebestyén. His narrative highlights the power of music to bridge cultural divides, a sentiment echoed in his frequent collaborations with diverse artists.

The title of Boyd’s book borrows from Paul Simon’s lyric in “Under African Skies,” a song that encapsulates the enduring nature of rhythm in music. Despite the challenges posed by modernization, Boyd believes the roots of rhythm remain steadfast. He laments the impact of technological advancements like drum machines, which he sees as a threat to the organic connection between musicians.

Boyd eloquently describes the irreplaceable magic of live collaboration: “what happens when a drummer and bass player lock eyes across a stage or a studio.” For Boyd, this human connection is the essence of music, and he warns against allowing technology to erode it. His critique serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to preserve the authenticity of traditional music.

Boyd’s career has been defined by his ability to “listen for a living.” From his early days as production manager at the Newport Folk Festival, where he witnessed Bob Dylan’s legendary electric set, to his work with Fairport Convention and the Incredible String Band, Boyd has been at the forefront of music’s most transformative moments. His time with Hannibal Records further cemented his reputation as a champion of global music, bringing underrepresented artists to the forefront.

In And the Roots of Rhythm Remain, Boyd reflects on these experiences with a blend of nostalgia and insight. His writing balances humor and gravitas, making the book both an engaging read and a valuable resource for music enthusiasts. He captures the irony and beauty of music’s evolution, from its roots in tradition to its modern-day iterations.

Boyd’s narrative also addresses the challenges faced by global music in today’s world. Repressive governments and cultural censorship have long threatened traditional music, but Boyd argues that the rise of technology presents a more insidious challenge. The drum machine, in particular, symbolizes the loss of spontaneity and human connection in music production.

Yet, Boyd remains optimistic about music’s resilience. He celebrates the adaptability of traditional music and its ability to find new audiences. His admiration for artists who preserve and innovate within their cultural traditions is evident throughout the book. Boyd’s exploration of these themes offers readers a nuanced perspective on the interplay between tradition and modernity.

Despite its length, And the Roots of Rhythm Remain is an accessible and engaging read. Boyd’s conversational tone and rich storytelling make complex topics relatable. He peppers the narrative with vivid anecdotes, such as the 1989 Spy magazine cartoon depicting David Byrne and Paul Simon on a quest for musical inspiration in a jungle. These moments of levity balance the book’s weightier discussions, creating a well-rounded reading experience.

Joe Boyd’s And the Roots of Rhythm Remain is a masterful exploration of global music’s journey through time. With his signature wit and wisdom, Boyd illuminates the enduring power of rhythm and the challenges it faces in an ever-changing world. The book is a testament to Boyd’s passion for music and his commitment to preserving its cultural significance.

For anyone interested in the intersection of music, culture, and history, And the Roots of Rhythm Remain is an essential read. Boyd’s insights remind us that while technology and politics may shape music’s form, its essence remains rooted in human connection and creativity. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of world music or a curious newcomer, this book offers a rich and rewarding journey into the heart of rhythm.