Stories about Music from March, 2017
There Are ‘No Borders to Music,’ But the U.S. Consulate Still Rejected These Indonesian Choir Members’ Visas
"Regardless of the “borders” instilled by politics, there are no borders to music, no borders to unity through artistry, no borders from humanity that thrives from singing of the heart."
Meet Ara Malikian, the Cosmopolitan With a Violin
Global Voices interviews Ara Malikian, an Armenian violinist who grew up in Lebanon, about the influences that shaped his life and his music.
Remembering Soviet Pop: the USSR's Vocal-Instrumental Ensembles
While the West twisted, discoed, and boogied, the people of the Soviet Union were treated to a bland but charming, state-censored version of Western music: the so-called vocal-instrumental ensembles (VIAs).
Macedonians Mourn Folk Singer Vanja Lazarova, Whose Plight Inspired Facebook Activism
Vanja Lazarova became part of digital activism history in Macedonia after her tough circumstances late in life inspired the innovative use of Facebook as a tool to petition the government.
Live Streaming at Trinidad & Tobago Carnival Brings Issue of Copyright Infringement Into Focus
"While this live streaming option has been praised in providing unique perspectives for current events and breaking news...[it] has provided more opportunities for infringement of copyright laws."
Nyango Star, the Apple-Shaped Mascot Who Drums for Japan's Tohoku Region
"Anytime Nyango Star makes a public appearance it is to help Tohoku recover. The mascot isn't drumming for its personal gain but for its beloved home."
An Indian American Muslim Singer Resurrects an Old Civil Rights Anthem
Chicago-based singer Zeshan Bagewadi, better known as Zeshan B, has embraced the music his Indian father introduced him to: soul, gospel and R&B.
Vybz Kartel Supporters Threaten Former Jamaican Culture Minister Over Remarks About Dancehall's Violent Lyrics
"I pray that Jamaicans who value common decency will push back against this new normal and defend Jamaica’s true culture. If we lose this battle, we will have lost Jamaica."
