Tag Archives | Suriname

Wan Boto — why is just one flag flying?

Today we share a sing-along for little kids that continues our week’s adventure in The Guianas. “Wan Boto” is a boatman’s song from Suriname, originally in the language Sranan Tongo or “Taki Taki” a Creole language common in Surinam’s Dutch, Javanese, Hindustani and Chinese ethnic and cultural communities.

Don’t know about the Guianas? Start here

Let’s start our musical week in The Guianas with De Draver Boys. And why not?


Music from the nations of Suriname, Guyana and French Guianas is a mix of African, Amerindian and European influences (with Suriname featuring a healthy dash of Indian/Hindu chutney). This performance by De Draver Boys helps us get into the traditional, non-chutney, Surinamese musical mood.

Hank Spalburg and The Kaseko All Stars make Siruname proud

Let’s say hi to Hank Spalburg, and goodbye to Surniame.


Our last burst of music from Suriname as our online class for little kids leaves The Guianas after a wondrous week. Kaseko is a genre that mixes Caribbean calypso and New Orleans Dixieland jazz. This wivideo is a blast from the past — Hank Spalburg and the Kaseko Stars. Where do you think we should go next week to find more amazing music in South America?