U.S. saxophonist Gary Bartz recorded his two volumes of Harlem Bush Music in the winter of 1970-71.

The music was subsequently issued on two albums entitled Uhuru and Taifa on Milestone to huge press and public acclaim. Gary Bartz was born and raised in Baltimore and early in his career worked with such luminaries as Art Blakey and Max Roach. He also enjoyed a stint in Miles Davis's group.

In 1969, he formed his own band, calling themselves the NTU Troop, dedicated to the furtherance of black Americans through their musical heritage. Harlem Bush Music utilised the powerful spirituality of vocalist Andy Bey, and a strong well knit rhythm team including Ron Carter on bass and Harold White on drums.