Member-only story

African Music Power And Being In Colonial Zimbabwe: African Expressive Cultures

Nathaniel Powell

·18.2k Followers· Follow

Published in African Music Power And Being In Colonial Zimbabwe (African Expressive Cultures)

4 min read · 1 week before

64 View Claps

12 Respond

Save

Listen

In the heart of a turbulent colonial landscape, where oppressive forces sought to silence and suppress the African spirit, music emerged as a beacon of resistance, a lifeline of cultural continuity, and a powerful agent of change.

African Music, Power, and Being in Colonial Zimbabwe (African Expressive Cultures)

by William Kinderman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4016 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	364 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

'African Music Power And Being In Colonial Zimbabwe: African Expressive Cultures' takes readers on a captivating journey into the vibrant musical tapestry of Zimbabwe, where music played a pivotal role in shaping the lives, identities, and political struggles of its people.

Music as a Source of Power and Identity

Music was not merely entertainment for Zimbabweans; it was an integral part of their very being. Through intricate rhythms, soulful melodies, and powerful lyrics, music expressed the innermost emotions, values, and beliefs of the people. From lullabies that calmed infants to celebratory songs that marked milestones, music permeated every aspect of life.

In the face of colonial domination, music became a potent force for preserving and asserting African identity. Traditional songs and dances kept alive ancient customs, passed down stories of resistance, and fostered a sense of collective belonging.

Music as a Medium of Resistance

As colonial rule tightened its grip, music transformed into a weapon of resistance. Songs became political anthems, galvanizing people to fight for their freedom. They denounced oppression, celebrated heroes, and inspired hope in the face of adversity.

The Chimurenga Movement, a series of uprisings against white settlers, found its voice in music. Liberation songs, such as "Pasi ne Zvaparara" (Down with the Settlers),became rallying cries for the oppressed.

The Mbira: A Symbol of African Heritage

Among the many instruments that shaped Zimbabwean music, the mbira, a traditional thumb piano, held a particularly profound significance. Its delicate, haunting sound captured the essence of African spirituality and became a symbol of resistance.

The playing of the mbira was not simply musical; it was a sacred ritual that connected people with their ancestors and the divine. It was used to heal the sick, resolve conflicts, and honor important occasions.

Contributors and Impact

'African Music Power And Being In Colonial Zimbabwe' features contributions from renowned scholars, including Paul Berliner, Derek B. Murray, and John Chernoff. Their meticulous research and firsthand accounts provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between music, power, and being in colonial Zimbabwe.

The book's impact extends beyond academic circles. It has inspired musicians, activists, and policymakers to recognize the transformative power of music in shaping history and fostering cultural resilience.

'African Music Power And Being In Colonial Zimbabwe: African Expressive Cultures' is a must-read for anyone interested in music, history, and postcolonial studies. It offers a compelling exploration of the ways in which music empowered African people during colonial times and continues to inspire today. Through its pages, we encounter the resilience, creativity, and indomitable spirit of the Zimbabwean people, whose music defied oppression and became a beacon of hope.

African Music, Power, and Being in Colonial Zimbabwe (African Expressive Cultures)

by William Kinderman

5 out of 5