It is seen as a landmark in the popularization of world music. While music from lands far from the corporation-controlled music industry of the United States and England has certainly flourished, little of it has been heard in the Western world. Passion introduced many listeners to such world-renowned talents as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Youssou N'Dour, and Baaba Maal, paving the way for these and other musicians to find audiences in America.
As a soundtrack for the film, Gabriel used the resources of the organization he founded, WOMAD, to bring together musicians from the Middle East and Africa. He worked with them to create a soundtrack meant to enhance the mood of the movie, based upon the actual music played during the time of Jesus Christ. However, he added a modern ambient musical touch to the original pieces, producing a musical work that has influenced many musicians in the years since its release.
The album has received near-universal praise from audiences around the world. Many have called it Gabriel's finest work, and some have said that his later albums (which have all had similarities to Passion) seem muddled in comparison.
Amazon.com promotes the album by noting its influence on the popularization of world music by stating, "To call Passion a pivotal recording in the development of world music would be a significant understatement."
Track Listing