Member-only story

The Social History of Music and Nation in Luanda, Angola from 1945 to Recent Times

Marc Foster

·8k Followers· Follow

Published in Intonations: A Social History Of Music And Nation In Luanda Angola From 1945 To Recent Times (New African Histories)

4 min read

384 View Claps

28 Respond

Save

Listen

Intonations: A Social History of Music and Nation in Luanda, Angola, from 1945 to Recent Times (New African Histories)

by Scott Tennant

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2565 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	316 pages

Music has played a significant role in the social and political history of Angola, particularly in the capital city of Luanda. From the era of Portuguese colonial rule to the present day, music has been a powerful force for cultural expression, social mobilization, and national identity.

This article explores the social history of music and nation in Luanda from 1945 to recent times. It examines the role of music in the Angolan independence movement, the development of popular music genres such as semba and kizomba, and the impact of globalization on the Angolan music scene.

Music and the Angolan Independence Movement

In the years leading up to Angolan independence, music played a vital role in mobilizing the nationalist movement. Musicians such as Agostinho Neto and Mario Pinto de Andrade used their songs to raise awareness of the plight of the Angolan people and to inspire them to fight for their freedom.

Semba, a popular Angolan dance music genre, was particularly influential in the independence movement. Semba songs often contained lyrics that expressed themes of social justice, anti-colonialism, and national pride. In the years following independence, semba continued to be a popular genre, and it remains a symbol of Angolan culture and identity.

The Development of Popular Music Genres

After independence, a number of new popular music genres emerged in Luanda. These genres, such as kizomba and kuduro, reflected the changing social and cultural landscape of Angola.

Kizomba, a genre that originated in Luanda in the 1980s, is a slow-dance music with romantic lyrics. Kizomba quickly became popular throughout Angola and beyond, and it remains one of the most popular music genres in the country.

Kuduro, a genre that emerged in the 1990s, is a faster-paced dance music with a more aggressive sound. Kuduro is particularly popular among young people in Luanda, and it has become a symbol of the city's vibrant street culture.

The Impact of Globalization

In recent years, the globalization of the music industry has had a significant impact on the Angolan music scene. Angolan musicians are now able to reach a global audience through online platforms such as YouTube and Spotify. This has led to a greater awareness of Angolan music outside of Angola, and it has also helped to promote the careers of Angolan musicians.

However, globalization has also had some negative consequences for the Angolan music industry. The influx of foreign music into Angola has led to a decline in the popularity of some traditional Angolan music genres. Additionally, the rise of digital piracy has made it difficult for Angolan musicians to earn a living from their music.

Music has played a significant role in the social and political history of Luanda, Angola. From the era of Portuguese colonial rule to the present day, music has been a powerful force for cultural expression, social mobilization, and national identity.

Today, the Angolan music scene is a vibrant and diverse mix of traditional and modern genres. Angolan musicians are making their mark on the global music stage, and the country's music continues to play a vital role in shaping the Angolan national identity.

Intonations: A Social History of Music and Nation in Luanda, Angola, from 1945 to Recent Times (New African Histories)

by Scott Tennant

4.6 out of 5