The January 2025 issue (#204) of Songlines is our end-of-year issue. We’ll be saluting the best releases from the previous 12 months, including announcing the winners of the Songlines Music Awards and discussing the issues that have been on our minds. We look at the legacy of Manu Chao, who made a long-overdue comeback, and speak to Arooj Aftab and Mali Obomsawin about the years they’ve had. We also chat with the Ivory Coast’s roots reggae legend, Tiken Jah Fakoly, and Brazil’s hottest singer right now, Xenia França, and have a conversation with Carnatic violinist L Subramaniam about his extraordinary career. We profile Selda Bagçan, Turkey’s iconic singer who continues to tour and influence new generations. Plus, record labels Topic Records and NØ FØRMAT! have important anniversaries this year, and we will show them some appreciation. We speak to St Vincent about her love of Latin American music, hear from Donald Shaw about Capercaillie’s unexpected tour of the Middle East, find out why Band Aid’s Christmas fundraising single continues to be a problem and explore Ghanaian palmwine music. Plus, all the usual news, listings, reviews, competitions and so much more. Subscribers will also receive our accompanying compilation (CD + digital) featuring ten tracks from the best new music releases and five bonus selections to accompany the issue.

Order a single copy of the print issue below, or subscribe here.

Single issues are priced at £9.95 and include UK p&p. An additional charge will be added for shipping overseas.