Xiaotang Wangiah 241a07142020 Popular Music And Its Relation

Xiaotang Wangiah 241a07142020popular Music And Its Relationship To A

The topic chosen for the individual research project is popular music and its relationship to apartheid. Popular music played an instrumental role during the apartheid period in South Africa, which led to enhancement of resistance movement history (Shoup, 1997). The research will be based on online sources as well as library because they have rich information about the whole idea of pop music and apartheid in South Africa, how it started and what was motivation of the artists who pioneered this music genre. Music in South Africa was not used as mirror of the society but also as a hammer to shape the reality of racial segregation by expressing experiences and concerns of the society during the apartheid period (Schumann, 2008).

Paper For Above instruction

Popular music in South Africa during the apartheid era served as a powerful vehicle for resistance and social commentary. Its evolution and strategic utilization by activists and artists greatly impacted political discourse, fostering unity and defiance among oppressed communities. This paper explores the intricate relationship between popular music and apartheid, highlighting how music became a form of protest, a tool for political expression, and a means to challenge racial segregation.

Introduction

The apartheid regime in South Africa, which officially lasted from 1948 to 1994, was characterized by institutionalized racial segregation, repression, and social injustice. Amidst this oppressive environment, music emerged not only as entertainment but also as a potent weapon of resistance. The emergence of protest songs and politically charged lyrics challenged the regime's authority, inspired collective action, and preserved cultural identities among marginalized populations. Understanding the role of popular music during this period offers crucial insights into how cultural expression can influence social and political movements.

The Historical Context of South African Apartheid and Music

South Africa's apartheid system was marked by laws that disenfranchised non-white populations, primarily Black South Africans, through pass laws, forced removals, and political repression. In this context, music became a form of defiance, symbolizing resistance and hope. The musical landscape included jazz, mbaqanga, kwaito, and protest songs, many of which conveyed messages of resilience and solidarity. Artists like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela gained international recognition for their activism through music (Schumann, 2008).

The Role of Popular Music in Resistance Movements

During the 1980s, a significant crossover of black and white artists took place, often collaborating on anti-apartheid songs, which amplified the anti-apartheid movement globally (South African History Online, 2019). Music became a rallying point for protests, with lyrics denouncing oppressive laws such as passes and forced relocations. The song 'Soweto Blues' by Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela exemplifies this era's musical activism, illustrating the struggle through poignant lyrics and powerful melodies. Despite censorship and political repression, musicians found ways to subvert official narratives and maintain a voice of dissent (Thomson, 2010).

Challenges Faced by Musicians and Censorship

The apartheid regime imposed strict censorship on music, particularly through the Directorate of Publication, which controlled content deemed politically sensitive. Many artists faced exile or imprisonment for their outspoken resistance. For instance, Miriam Makeba was exiled for her anti-apartheid songs. Despite these obstacles, musicians continued to embed messages of resistance in their music, often using coded language or performing illegally at underground venues (Drewett, 2004). This resilience underscored the crucial role of music as an act of political defiance.

The Impact and Legacy of Music in the Anti-Apartheid Movement

Music's influence extended beyond South Africa's borders, inspiring global solidarity against apartheid. Songs like 'Free Nelson Mandela' by The Specials and 'Biko' by Peter Gabriel galvanized international support. Post-apartheid, the legacy of musical activism continues to shape South Africa's cultural identity and social consciousness. The resistance songs and protests have become symbols of hope, resilience, and the power of cultural expression to challenge injustice (Pooley, 2016).

Potential Challenges in Research

Researching the relationship between music and apartheid presents challenges, particularly due to censorship and government suppression, which led to the exile or silencing of many artists. Accessing sources that directly capture the voices of resistance can be limited. However, post-apartheid narratives, archives, and interviews provide valuable insights into the music's social impact. Secondary sources analyzing the era, such as academic dissertations and historical accounts, help reconstruct the narrative of musical resistance amidst repression (Drewett, 2014).

Conclusion

The role of popular music during South Africa's apartheid era exemplifies how cultural expression can serve as a form of resistance against tyranny. Despite oppressive censorship and political repression, musicians used their art to voice dissent, inspire unity, and challenge systemic injustice. The enduring legacy of these musical movements underscores the profound power of culture in shaping social change, illustrating that even under the harshest conditions, art remains a vital tool for resistance and transformation.

References

• Drewett, M. (2004). An analysis of the censorship of popular music within the context of cultural struggle in South Africa during the 1980s (Doctoral dissertation). Rhodes University.
• Drewett, M. (2019). Music and Fear in Night-Time Apartheid. In Nocturnes: Popular Music and the Night (pp. ). Palgrave Macmillan.
• Pooley, T. M. (2016). Extracurricular arts: poverty, inequality and indigenous musical arts education in post-apartheid South Africa. Critical arts, 30(5), 623-641.
• Roberts, R. (2013, December 5). Nelson Mandela and music: 10 essential anti-apartheid songs. Los Angeles Times.
• Schumann, A. (2008). The beat that beat apartheid: The role of music in the resistance against apartheid in South Africa.
• Shoup, J. (1997). Pop music and resistance in apartheid South Africa. Alif: Journal of Comparative Poetics, 17, 73-97.
• South African History Online. (2019, August 27). The development of Music in South Africa timeline. Retrieved from https://www.sahistory.org.za.
• Thomson, R. (2010). Rhythmical Resistance: Musicians from the Apartheid Era. Culture Trip.