outernational

Outernational Grooves: A Cosmic Journey Through Music

Outer-national music, a term encompassing genres like world music, global beats, and ethnotronic, is a fascinating musical tapestry woven from threads of diverse cultures. It’s a sonic exploration of the world, a fusion of traditional sounds and contemporary beats, a celebration of global rhythms.

Early Influences:

• The Roots: This vibrant musical landscape has roots in the 1960s and 70s, a time of cultural exchange and experimentation. Artists like Paul Simon (Graceland, 1986) and Peter Gabriel (So, 1986) helped pave the way, blending Western and African influences.
• The Rise of World Music: The 1980s saw the emergence of dedicated world music labels, showcasing artists like Salif Keita, Cesaria Evora, and Youssou N’Dour. This era brought global music to a wider audience, breaking down barriers and creating a sense of sonic interconnectedness.

The Groove Evolves:

• Ethnotronic: The 1990s witnessed the rise of ethnotronic, a fusion of traditional music with electronic beats. Pioneers like Robert Plant (with Jimmy Page in No Quarter) and The Orb used samplers to create unique soundscapes.
• Global Beats: The 21st century saw the emergence of global beats, a diverse mix of genres like reggae, hip-hop, and electronica, infused with global influences. M.I.A, Björk, and Gorillaz became prominent figures, pushing the boundaries of global sound.

Fun Facts & Quirky Moments:

• Paul Simon’s “Graceland” album was initially banned in South Africa for its collaboration with South African musicians during apartheid. The album’s release ultimately helped bring international attention to the plight of the black population in South Africa.
• The iconic “Soweto” by Miriam Makeba, a powerful anthem of resistance against apartheid, was banned in South Africa for decades. It became a symbol of hope and defiance, resonating deeply with the international community.
• Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” music video, known for its innovative use of stop-motion animation, was originally planned to feature a puppet that looked like a penis. Thankfully, the idea was scrapped, leaving the world with a more family-friendly masterpiece.

A Global Soundscape:

Outer-national music isn’t simply a collection of genres; it’s a celebration of the rich tapestry of human expression through sound. From the pulsating rhythms of West Africa to the hauntingly beautiful melodies of Asia, it’s a musical journey that transcends borders and connects hearts through the universal language of music.