The development and function of a musical tradition are rarely isolated from the social and political contexts in which they exist. Power structures, social hierarchies, and political ideologies can profoundly shape the style, content, and purpose of music. A powerful example of this is the role of folk music in apartheid South Africa.
Context: Apartheid South Africa (1948-1994) was a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. The ruling white minority government used music and other cultural forms to reinforce its authority and suppress the cultural expression of the Black majority population. Black South Africans were denied access to many public spaces and opportunities, and their cultural traditions were often marginalized or actively discouraged. However, despite these oppressive conditions, Black South Africans continued to create and perform music as a form of resistance, solidarity, and cultural preservation.
Influence on Development and Function:
- Resistance and Protest: Folk music became a powerful vehicle for expressing resistance to apartheid. Songs often told stories of oppression, injustice, and the struggle for liberation. These songs were performed at rallies, protests, and underground gatherings, serving to galvanize support for the anti-apartheid movement. Artists like Miriam Makeba and Johnny Clegg used their music to raise awareness of the plight of Black South Africans internationally.
- Cultural Preservation: Folk music helped to preserve and transmit Black South African cultural traditions in the face of government suppression. Songs often incorporated traditional musical styles, languages, and storytelling techniques. This helped to maintain a sense of cultural identity and continuity for Black South Africans.
- Social Cohesion and Solidarity: Folk music fostered a sense of social cohesion and solidarity among Black South Africans. Singing and dancing together at communal gatherings helped to strengthen bonds and provide emotional support in the face of adversity. The music served as a shared experience that transcended social divisions.
- Symbol of Identity: The music became a potent symbol of Black South African identity and resilience. It represented a refusal to be silenced or oppressed, and a determination to maintain cultural pride and dignity.
Specific Examples: Songs like "Sizwe Sama" (meaning "We are the People") by Johnny Clegg and his Savuka band, and the protest songs of the Zulu migrant workers, are prime examples. These songs directly addressed the injustices of apartheid and inspired hope for a better future. The use of Zulu language and traditional musical instruments further reinforced the cultural identity of the performers and listeners.
In conclusion, the social and political context of apartheid South Africa profoundly shaped the development and function of folk music. It transformed music from a form of entertainment into a powerful tool for resistance, cultural preservation, and social solidarity. This example demonstrates how music can be deeply intertwined with social and political struggles, and how it can play a vital role in shaping cultural identity and promoting social change.