Musical Natal Alienation

 Kadence White

Dr. Harris

English 2016

2 December 2024

Musical Natal Alienation

Afrofuturism is a cultural movement that combines elements of science fiction, historical fiction, fantasy to explore African diaspora’s experiences and envision futures where people of African descent are central to the narrative. It often addresses themes of alienation, identity, and liberation, all by blending futuristic technology with African aesthetics and traditions.

Natal alienation refers to the disconnection or estrangement individuals feel from their origins or cultural identity, often resulting from systemic oppression or displacement. It can manifest in feelings of isolation, loss of cultural heritage, and a diminished sense of belonging, affecting one’s self-perception and community ties. In music natal alienation illustrates and explores themes of disconnection from one’s roots and cultural identity. 

Based on Space and Cosmic Exploration the songs “Space is the Place”, “Mothership Connection (Star Child)”, “Forerunner Foray”, and “Third Stone from the Sun” all use some sort of space metaphor or just even a cosmic feel in their songs. In “Space is the Place” by Sun Ra, there is an exploration of the idea of space as a utopia, where freedom and new possibilities exist, away from earthly struggles. In “Mothership Connection (Star Child)” by Parliament the metaphor of a spaceship is used to discuss themes of transcendence and unity, portraying space as a place of higher consciousness. “Forerunner Foray” the lyrics go into a futuristic and cosmic imagery, reflecting on the journey through space as a path to self-discovery and enlightenment. The instrumental piece by Jimi Hendrix “Third Stone from the Sun" gives the feel of being an outsider looking into the Earth feeling sense of detachment and observation feeling alienated and not fully connected to one’s surroundings.

The songs “Many Moons”, “ATLiens”, “Never Catch Me”, “Lost in the World”, “Lost Ones” fall under the identity and freedom category of natal alienation. In Janelle Monae’s - “Many Moons” she addresses the themes of identity, freedom, and the struggle against oppression. “You’re free but in your mind, your freedom’s in a bind.” The OutKast lyrics explore the feeling of being an outsider or alien in society. “They alienate us ‘cause we different, keep yo head to the sky…Like Sounds of Blackness when I practice what I preach and don’t no lie.” “Never Catch Me” -Flying Lotus ft. Kendrick Lamar lyrically illustrates the desire of wanting to live freely by not being on Earth. “The big thought of fallin’ off, disappeared to my fate.” “Lost in the World” – Kanye West he has lyrics of feeling lost, disconnected, and just in search of identity and belonging. He does not feel that strong connection to his origins. In Lauryn Hill’s “Lost Ones” she discusses the disconnection she feels and wanting to reevaluation of her identity and purpose.

Based on cultural heritage and critique, the songs “Amerykahn Promise”, “Black Parade”, “DNA”, and “Black Man in a White World all discuss and reflect on the challenges of staying connected to one’s cultural heritage while navigating a society that often marginalizes and misunderstands it. Erykah Badu’s “Amerykahn Promise” she critiques the American Dream and highlights the disillusionment and alienation felt by African Americans. She discusses broken promises and systemic issues. “Black Parade”- Beyonce celebrates Black culture and heritage while also addressing the struggles and resilience of the Black community. She touches on the themes of pride and the fight against systemic oppression. One of Kendrick Lamar’s greatest hits “DNA” delves into his identity and heritage, just by exploration of being black in America. The song addresses the external and internal conflicts that arise from societal expectations and pressures, leading to alienation from one’s true self and roots. Michael Kiwanuka’s “Black Man in a White World” addresses the feeling of being an outsider in a predominately white society. His critique is on the lack of representation and acceptance, highlighting the alienation and struggle it is to maintain one’s cultural identity.

MIXTAPE

“Third Stone from the Sun” – Jimi Hendrix (1967)

“Space Is the Place” – Sun Ra (1973)

“Mothership Connection (Star Child)” – Parliament (1975)

“ATLiens” – OutKast (1996)

“Lost Ones” – Lauryn Hill (1998)

“Amerykahn Promise” – Erykah Badu (2008)

“Many Moons” – Janelle Monae (2008)

“Lost in the World” – Kanye West (2010) 

“Forerunner Forray” – Shabazz Palaces (2014)

“Never Catch Me” – Flying Lotus ft. Kendrick Lamar (2014)

“Black Man In A White World” – Michael Kiwanuka (2016)

“DNA” – Kendrick Lamar (2017)

“Black Parade” – Beyonce (2020)