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Essays of a Musician Writing in a Post-Album Age
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SUBJECTS
Music » Popular & Folk
Area Studies » African American Studies
Music » Vocal
REVIEWS
"Despite being deeply troubled by much of what he sees and hears, William C. Banfield avoids churning out another of those 'things were so much better in my day' volumes. Instead, this comprehensive and insightful collection of essays celebrates past glories and recognizes current achievements, neither demonizing nor excusing rockers and rappers for what he considers questionable actions and debatable sentiments. Banfield is certainly concerned that so many gifted performers place more emphasis on production and image than artistry and excellence, but he also understands that the current system of corporate-dominated popular culture deserves as much, if not more criticism for the state of things than the latest crunk star. Blending reflection with interviews and analysis, Banfield moves from classical to jazz, then to rock and into the spiritual realm. He even dips into film and television scores, while continually returning to the key question of what the future holds for music in general and, particularly, the sounds created by African-Americans. Black culture may be his principal focus, but William C. Banfield's treatment extends across the broad spectrum of the arts, exploring complex problems, posing innovative solutions and inspiring readers to carefully consider the songs, films and television shows that define their existence."
— JAZZTIMES
DESCRIPTION
Following in the footsteps of renowned authors like Alain Locke, Harold Cruse, and Amiri Baraka, Black Notes takes as its mission an important aesthetic inquiry, asking the compelling questions: How did we get where we are? What's next among this generation's artistic voices, concerns, and practices? What is the future of Black Popular Music?
In this fascinating collection of essays, interviews, and notes, Banfield celebrates and critiques the values of contemporary Black popular music through the exploration of both present and past voices and movements. From his unique vantage point as musician, artist, and writer, Banfield examines a variety of influences in the music world, from 17th-century composer/violinist Chevalier de St. Georges to jazz giant Duke Ellington; from producer Quincy Jones to pop legend Prince. Amusing anecdotes and the author's personal stories can be found throughout the work.
This entertaining work is a must read for anyone interested in African American studies, music, and popular culture.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
William C. Banfield is Professor of Africana Studies/Music/Society at Berklee School of Music. A musician, composer, conductor, and musical director, Banfield is the consulting editor for African American Cultural Studies for the Scarecrow Press, Inc.
