Mali's Traore leads world music survey

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- The second album by Mali native Rokia Traore tops a survey by fRoots magazine of the best folk, roots and world music.

The publication polled about 120 journalists, radio presenters and musicians and asked them to name their favorite album. "Wanita," in which Traore merges contemporary and traditional sounds while singing primarily in her native Bamanan dialect, was the top vote getter, the magazine reported in its latest edition.

Following "Wanita" are two albums by United Kingdom artists, "Bright Shiny Morning" from Norma Waterson and "Unity" from John Tams. Cuban musician Ruben Gonzalez grabbed the fourth spot with "Chanchulo." "Red Dirt Girl" from Emmylou Harris and "Bold" from Catriona MacDonald tied at No. 5.

"Musica Negra in the Americas" was chosen as the best of the compilations and reissues. With 33 tracks from 20 countries, the album showcases the diversity of music with African roots in the Americas. Among the featured artists and songs are Andy Palacio of Belize ("Nabi"); Luis Vargas of the Dominican Republic ("Tranquila"); and Susana Baca of Peru ("Heces").

See related sites about MUSIC

Note: Pages will open in a new browser window

External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.