Music, as with all forms of
art, communicates directly with the soul.
As such, it is a powerful force capable of positively or
negatively altering the psyche.
Individually or collectively, consciously or subconsciously.
At Robbie Jansen’s funeral last week,
Minister in the Presidency Trevor Manual spoke of how the
music ‘inspired people during the struggle years.’
Then on Wednesday, speaking at the news
conference to welcome Chilean writer Ariel Dorfman, who
will deliver the eighth Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture this
year, Mamphela Ramphela spoke of South Africa’s addiction
to Nelson Mandela.
"Madiba is already 92 years old. He
won't live forever. When a parent dies, it leaves a big
void. We, as a society, therefore have to think how we will
handle the despondency that will come when this icon passes
away," she said.
"The
best way to do this is to find ways to give expression
to the principles, ideals and dreams for which Madiba
lives." |
|
She went on to say ‘It is time that
South Africans put away the vuvuzela and become quiet to
listen to one another.’
For more than two years now, I have been
trying to find a sponsor for a music festival that showcases
all genres of South African music.
I am talking about Die Antwoord performing on the same stage
as Selaelo Selota.
Kurt Darren performing on the same stage as Lira.
Locnville, Nomfusi & The Lucky Charms, The Dirty Skirts,
Timothy Moloi, Auriol Hayes, Parlotones, Jack Parow, BLK
JKS, Tasha Baxter, Ernie Smith, the list goes on and on.
Listening to each other.
Talking to each other.
Communicating directly to the soul, encouraging a diverse
audience to listen to each other and talk to each other.
Nurturing an all-embracing original new South African music
and culture.
Building a united new South African Nation.
But so far, neither Government nor the corporate
world has shown an interest.
Maybe the concept is just fifty years ahead of its time.
