Sun Ra and the Birth of Afrofuturism: Discovering America

A Pure Solar World: Sun Ra and the Birth of Afrofuturism (Discovering America)

by Fernando Díez de Urdanivia

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11090 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	373 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Sun Ra, born Herman Blount in 1914, was a visionary musician, poet, and philosopher who laid the groundwork for the Afrofuturism movement. His innovative music, groundbreaking performances, and radical ideas continue to inspire and influence artists and thinkers today.

Early Life and Career

Sun Ra was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and grew up in a musical family. He began playing the piano at an early age and was soon drawn to the avant-garde jazz scene. In the 1940s, he moved to Chicago and became a fixture on the city's vibrant jazz scene. He adopted the name Sun Ra in 1946, and it was around this time that he began to develop his unique musical style and philosophy.

Musical Innovations

Sun Ra's music was a unique blend of jazz, avant-garde, and world music. He was known for his use of extended techniques, such as playing the piano with his elbows and forearms, and for his innovative use of electronic instruments. His music was often characterized by its cosmic and futuristic themes, and he was one of the first musicians to incorporate elements of science fiction and fantasy into his work.

Groundbreaking Performances

Sun Ra's live performances were legendary. He and his band, the Arkestra, would often perform in elaborate costumes and makeup, and their shows were known for their theatrical and surreal elements. Sun Ra would often incorporate elements of dance, poetry, and spoken word into his performances, and he was known for his charismatic stage presence.

Radical Ideas

Sun Ra was not only a musician, but also a philosopher and poet. He was a proponent of African-American pride and self-determination, and he believed that music could be a force for positive change in the world. He was also a strong advocate for space exploration and believed that humans would one day colonize other planets.

Legacy

Sun Ra died in 1993, but his legacy continues to live on. He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of jazz, and his music and ideas have influenced countless artists and thinkers. He is also credited with being one of the pioneers of the Afrofuturism movement, which explores the intersection of African-American culture and science fiction and fantasy.

Sun Ra was a visionary artist and thinker who left an indelible mark on the world. His music, performances, and ideas continue to inspire and challenge us today. He was a true pioneer of Afrofuturism, and his work remains a testament to the power of imagination and creativity.

A Pure Solar World: Sun Ra and the Birth of Afrofuturism (Discovering America)

by Fernando Díez de Urdanivia

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11090 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	373 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE