Rhythm as a counter-cultural political instrument of empowerment in James Brown’s ‘Say it Loud, I‘m Black and I’m Proud’

Abstract

Like other art forms, the tensely-rhythmical genre of funk music has often been touted as a powerful weapon to counter race-based regimes and carry overt political messages during the tension-filled period of the civil rights movement in America. More particularly, at the end of the 1950s and the beginning of 1960s, funk music, which evolved from Rhythm and Blues, jazz and soul music, inspired the African American community to break free from the fetters of institutional racial segregation and give voice to the downtrodden black race. Funk music is typified by its powerfully-rhythmical tones which echo much dynamism and energy. The song’s strong bass lines, drumbeats, syncopated beats and the recurrent refrain all along the song: “Say it Loud, I’m Black and Proud” create rhythmic patterns that awaken black consciousness and emphasize black pride. Accordingly, that rhythm is a carrier of power is the quintessence of the present paper. It is a medium of expression that conveys life-changing thoughts. In this song, rhythm is featured as an effective strategy to re-construct the new Black identity and chart a new life wherein racial equity prevails. Brown’s rhythm-driven patterns are a prelude to a new life African Americans have long been waiting for.