the joyful sounds of oppression

Ella Fitzgerald portrait by Carl Van Vechten

The Harlem Renaissance was an artistic movement that defined the character of the African American identity and its position in society. It was a revolution fueled by the intellect, which expressed the frustration as well as the hope felt by the black population during the 1920s through artistic and creative means. It was a symbol for black liberation and sophistication, a statement by black intellectuals that actual emancipation could no longer be denied. In a period of political repression, severe poverty, and apparent racism, African Americans used art as a vehicle to fight a war against the stereotypes established in white American society. Duke Ellington is seen as an emblematic figure of the Harlem Renaissance because his music beautifully encompasses the themes and sentiments prevalent in the period between WWI and the Great Depression. In the introduction of his tune, “Daybreak Express”, the listener can feel this tension and frustration felt by African Americans at the way they were being treated. The opening is abrasive with loud accentuations and increased intensity through speed and discordant harmonies. This sentiment of frustration was not overwhelmingly sad or angry; it was deeply powerful and beautifully complemented by an intense tone of joy and hope for the future. This optimism was expressed through the elements of swing and playful feel adopted by the music. His music, and the music that was produced during the Harlem Renaissance by the African American population was a cry to be recognized as rightful citizens of American society, a joyful screech demanding justice.

Over the course of history, music has been used as a means to express various sentiments and ideologies of repressed groups. This idea is beautiful. Music expresses an intangible sense of what an individual is feeling and the public is able to relate to certain types of music because the sentiment being expressed resonates somewhere within their own existence. What I also find beautiful about the Harlem Renaissance is the fact that it brought joy where there was little reason to smile or dance. Music can lift spirits and inspire joy, bring people together and provoke them to laugh. It helps us cope with big and small problems and allows us to express ourselves and the issues of our times.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2p_5XoP1Fg