Framing House music, perhaps the most depoliticized of all urban musics, in a political context may seem incredulous to some. Yet this incredulity would be based on a superficial reading of the essence of House: in its very inception, the escapism into a fantasy hedonistic world was an expression of the underprivileged and marginalized, and the creation of this musical space was nothing less than a political act.
Perhaps even more than Chicago or Detriot 67, the political dimension is deeply interwoven into the urban musical fabric of South Africa, and has profoundly influenced its evolution. The Zulu word Ukulwa means war, and here it means a war against oppression and the struggle for freedom. Thus even as South Africa rises as a proud modern nation, even as we rejoice in these rhythms, we must remember this war, and both continue, and continue to be inspired by, this struggle against domination, against injustice: Ukulwa.
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Comments
Tjo!! Kuyafiwa neh!
introduction perfectly describes township clubs back in days of apartheid where we played our gigs - Sharpeville Nightclub comes to mind, not withstanding it was housed in a government owned building!
beyond the music and mixes which i really love, i enjoy reading the introductions at the top of the page. very informative and educational. thank you