Why must women’s art be seen as autobiographical when we readily accept the idea of male auteurs spinning fictionalised yarns? In her much analysed video and album Lemonade, Beyoncé may be playing make believe.
Congo’s most famous musician Papa Wemba, performing at a concert in Kinshasa in 2004.
Reuters/ David Lewis
Popular African musician Papa Wemba, who died recently, has been close to the heartbeat of the continent’s music. His influence will continue long after his death.
Beyoncé and Jay Z’s marriage is the immediate focus of ‘Lemonade.’ But it’s also a tale of the black family in America.
Andrew Kelly/Reuters
Gifted musician, peerless showman – and fierce protector of his copyrighted work. Prince fought battles that changed the direction of the music industry and are helping the next generation of artists.
Despite Prince’s many transformations – musically and visually – he extended his signature energy over 39 albums. His broad sonic church attracted fans from every walk of life.
Prince performs during halftime show of the NFL’s Super Bowl, 2007.
Mike Blake/Reuters
Richard Lowenstein’s 1986 film Dogs in Space was a punk circus/social document that alienated many. But on the film’s 30th anniversary, it seems the world has caught up with it and a new audience of fans has emerged.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s recent induction of both Chicago and NWA has sparked a debate about the definition of rock music. But should we be surprised? The Hall is an industry behemoth, not the voice of the people.
A scientist explains how a liberal arts education made ‘subtle yet significant contributions’ to his understanding of what science is, how it’s done, and how advancements are made.
From Jesus Christ Superstar to the Pirates of Penzance, Jon English rocked it all.
Youtube
From Judas Iscariot, to a string of pop hits, to the Pirate King, Jon English defied easy categorisation. With his distinctive gravelly rasp, he straddled TV, stage and the pop charts.