The Sound Of Freedom: How Music Became A Powerful Weapon In South Africa's Fight Against Apartheid

During apartheid, from 1948 to 1994, music emerged as a beacon of hope and a weapon of resistance and protest within South Africa while l ocal artists in exile during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s also interacted and collaborated with international artists and became crucial in spreading the anti-apartheid message beyond the South African borders.

The early resistance

Resistance to apartheid took many forms, from non-violent protests to armed struggle. Music emerged as a unifying force that showed resilience, and socio-political resistance and finally led to transformation.

Songs such as Enoch Sontonga's 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika' God Bless Africa, the anthem of the African National Congress ANC, symbolised hope and defiance.

Early protest songs criticised land dispossession and laid the foundation for a musical tradition of resistance. Today, songs still play a significant role in South African political cultures and are sung at the start and end of political meetings, as well as during demonstrations and protests.