Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)

View Issue TOC

Music as a Political Expression during Sociopolitical Transitions in Gabon: An Analytical Framework

Oyono Ngoma, University of Science and Technology of Masuku (USTM) Ndozie Ngaoua, Department of Advanced Studies, Omar Bongo University, Libreville Achanga Mbooya, University of Science and Technology of Masuku (USTM) Zamba Zokwe, Omar Bongo University, Libreville
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18964258
Published: April 12, 2012

Abstract

Music has played a significant role in North African societies during various sociopolitical transitions, including those in Gabon. In these contexts, music serves as a powerful tool for expressing political sentiments and advocating for change. The study employs a qualitative analytical framework to examine case studies from recent sociopolitical transitions in Gabon. The methodology includes thematic analysis of music-related discourses and interviews with musicians and political figures. Music in Gabon has exhibited a clear trend towards more overtly political content, especially during periods of significant societal change and unrest. This shift is evident in the proportion of politically charged songs that have emerged over the past decade. The analysis reveals a strong correlation between shifts in sociopolitical climate and corresponding changes in musical expression. This finding underscores the importance of music as a medium for political engagement and public discourse. Given the findings, policymakers should consider integrating mechanisms that harness the power of music to facilitate dialogue on contentious issues and promote social cohesion.

Full Text:

Read the Full Article

The HTML galley is loaded below for inline reading and better discovery.

How to Cite

Oyono Ngoma, Ndozie Ngaoua, Achanga Mbooya, Zamba Zokwe (2012). Music as a Political Expression during Sociopolitical Transitions in Gabon: An Analytical Framework. African Visual Arts Journal, Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18964258

Keywords

North AfricanSociopolitical TransitionsPolitical EconomyEthnomusicologyCultural AnalysisMusicologyPostcolonial Studies

Research Snapshot

Desktop reading view
Language
EN
Formats
HTML + PDF
Publication Track
Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)
Current Journal
African Visual Arts Journal

References