Course content

This is a course that examines the transatlantic flow of music from Africa to other parts of the world, especially the Americas. From the slave trade (15th-19th century), through the colonial era (up to the 20th century), to the period of analogue and digital technologies (up to the present), there has been a flow and exchange of musical elements between Africa and the Americas, and this course highlights how this dynamic is multi-directional, complex, and continuous. We will explore different musical genres, such as Cuban rumba and Ghanaian highlife, that are important for understanding transnational musical motion. We will also critically attend to Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s Afrobeat and its influence on contemporary Afrobeats music in Africa and other parts of the world. Key to the course are certain concepts and ideas - such as syncretism, creolization, diaspora, globalisation, indigenisation, Africanisation - which interrelate and diverge in interesting ways. Aiming for holistic appreciation, the course is based around audio-visual examples, weekly readings, and practical performance elements.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

Students who complete this course will have:

• obtained knowledge about the continuous transatlantic flow and exchange of musical elements between Africa and other parts of the world
• examined and analysed specific genres that emanated from these transatlantic musical exchanges
• acquired an understanding of theoretical ideas and concepts that explicate the themes explored in this course

Skills:

Students who complete this course will have:

• developed the ability to cogently articulate their knowledge of the subject of study
• deepened their aural knowledge and appreciation of specific genres of music examined in this course
• developed critical skills with which to engage with academic theories that this course underscores
• further deepened their academic writing skills

Learning methods and activities

This course will consist of lectures based on readings as well as audio-visual case studies. It is expected that students will do the readings and engage with the audio-visual materials before class, as these will serve as basis for the class discussions.

Compulsory assignments

• Listening test
• Group project

Recommended previous knowledge

It is recommended that students demonstrate an openness to music from other parts of the world other than those within their spheres of familiarity.

Credit reductions