Putumayo World Music was established in 1993 to introduce people to the music of the world's cultures. The label was started as an offshoot of the Putumayo clothing and handicraft company, after its founder, Dan Storper, was surprised by the extraordinary response to the international music he had begun playing in his stores. Putumayo's meticulously researched and curated musical journeys were so successful that, in 1997, Storper sold the clothing company so he could focus his attention on the music business. For the past 21 years, Putumayo has been known for its joyful compilations of great international music that support the company's motto: "Guaranteed to make you feel good!"

Putumayo's distinctive CD covers feature the colorful art of British illustrator Nicola Heindl, whose folkloric style illuminates the company's mission: to connect the traditional and the contemporary through music and art. By combining appealing music and striking visual aesthetics with creative retail marketing, Putumayo has developed a unique brand identity, a rarity in today's artist-based music industry.