A new book exploring music as act of resistance

Author Joe Mushall sheds light on music as a tool of defiance

A new book delves into the profound impact of music as a form of resistance throughout the turbulent 20th and 21st centuries. Written by Joe Mushall, a distinguished historian with expertise in postwar and contemporary fascism, “Rebel Sounds” magnifies the role of music scenes worldwide in fostering solidarity, hope, and fortitude in the face of oppression, dictatorship, war, racism, and state violence.

Ukraine’s underground music scene in focus

Released by Footnote Press on September 26, “Rebel Sounds” highlights the eighth chapter, which narrates the resilient tale of Ukraine’s underground music culture. Producers, promoters, and dancers have come together to safeguard their heritage since the eruption of war in 2022, even resorting to hosting gatherings in bomb shelters.

One captivating account in the book details the inception of ‘РАЗОМ ЗА УКРАЇНУ / Together for Ukraine’, a charitable 65-track album by Kyiv’s Standard Deviation and Mystictrax from Chornobyl labels. Featuring tracks by renowned artists like Dasha Rush, Laurent Garnier, M.E.S.H., Ben Sims, and more, this initiative serves as a powerful testament to the unifying force of music.

Exploring global musical defiance

Further chapters delve into the emergence of Afrobeats in Nigeria under authoritarian rule, the genesis of freedom songs in the Republic of Ireland, the origin of bossa nova in Brazil during a military dictatorship, the rise of two-tone against street violence in Britain, and the haunting echoes of ethnic cleansing in the Balkans.

Acknowledgment and acclaim

Renowned British singer/songwriter Billy Bragg applauds “Rebel Sounds,” asserting, “Empathy is the currency of all music, and Joe Mulhall does a remarkable job of illustrating how this quality has been harnessed to foster solidarity in times of struggle and generate empathy for the victims of injustice.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to own your copy of “Rebel Sounds” – an illuminating exploration of music’s pivotal role in times of strife.

Now, let’s connect with Meena Sears, Mixmag’s Digital Intern, on Instagram to stay updated on the latest music news and trends.

FAQs

Q: What is the main theme of “Rebel Sounds” by Joe Mushall?

A: “Rebel Sounds” explores how music has been utilized as a tool of resistance across various global contexts in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Q: What is the significance of the ‘РАЗОМ ЗА УКРАЇНУ / Together for Ukraine’ album?

A: This charity album, curated by Kyiv’s Standard Deviation and Mystictrax from Chornobyl labels, showcases the power of music in unifying communities and supporting a cause, featuring tracks by esteemed artists.

Q: How has music helped in fostering solidarity according to Billy Bragg?

A: Billy Bragg emphasizes that empathy, a core component of music, has been pivotal in generating solidarity during times of struggle and evoking empathy for those facing injustices.

Credit: mixmag.net