Monday 23 August 2010

House Music Heals - Heavenly

We are all in a dfficult place due to all the government cuts etc., nobody knows exactly what is going to happen . It is time to get down to basics and I find myself revisiting those things that not only inspired me, but also nourished, in their own therapuetic way . I keep coming back to the power of music but not just any music. There is so much music ,that can make you feel dreadful. No I am talking about the magical power of USA deep soulful house music of the 90's. In particular the music I experienced first hand, in some of the best clubs around the world. Those who grew up with this music, now with their more settled lives , family etc. Recall and play the music in the main, rather than talk of the DJ's -which is interesting. As I suppose that was where the real lasting connection was made - with the people, their mind, bodies and soul . This incredible musical phenomena, is ripe for more mainstream appreciation of it cultural prevalence and legacy . As most writing is about the DJ's and labels. There has been very little writing across the media or academia , over the years about the roots and innovation of the actual Black & Hispanic and Gay artists that made and enjoyed the music. Or particularly the role of largely Black singers, the Black Divas - with their gospel, spiritualized delivery . With the power to totally transform powerfully and uplift your mood with a combination of searing vocals aligned with irresistable percussive beats , and all manor of novel lush keyboards sounds

Thursday 12 August 2010

The Artists Voice in the midst of Calamities

Well it seems the artist's voice will not be heard - however artists will always try to make their voice heard above the clamour - for cuts, down sizing reductions , change of remit purpose, opening up arts venues to be more outward facing, job losses etc. how to measure the impact of the arts on the pubic etc. and all other manner of calamities that may come to the arts cultural sector - the same across the board. What is clear is the need to work together more closely, share resources, partnership, collaboration is need more than ever. Those not used to it this will find it all very strange and disruptive . For myself I am planning my next moves, as there is much to re-configure, momentum to be regained and re- aligments to be made.

Always my muse never fails and clear ideas are emerging on the music and visuals front for the project . There is my support team's unfailing comittment, tempered only by the current climate cuts etc. Close Team working will be critical for sucess.

It seems to me it is often the case particularly for a many Black artists on the margins they face considerable added obstacles so the all the arts sector docuementated evidence states. I am happy but chastened by the fact that I have only ever had one arts grant back in the 8O's from a public funding body. Much of my success and achievement were made through my own my own efforts. This entrepreneurial spirit has served me very well to date but what of the future ? How will all this affect the arts and artists voice - specifically those not platformed or championed in the mainstream currently ?