The Language of Music: Minority Languages in Popular Music

This collection delves into the politics of language choice when composing and performing popular music in punk, metal, Hip-Hop and rap and provides fascinating examples of language change, resistance, reclamation and revitalisation from across the globe, giving readers insights into the work of artists, the activity and functions of scenes and music spaces. Even when absorbed in solitude, the uniting power of music holds the power to instil a sense of belonging connecting outsiders, outcasts and the dissident. From the agitation of protest songs to expressions of uniqueness and diversity, music offers a means for expressing individual struggle, suffering and disadvantage that can be heard, acknowledged and understood to bring about social action, reconciliation and education. This collection will introduce new music and subcultures to the wider academic community to explore and enjoy.

Gareth R. Schott is Professor in Media and Creative Technologies at the University of Waikato. His research portfolio is broad but includes several research publications that examine the impact of punk as a cultural movement. His creative research praxis includes the composition and performance of soundtrack and soundscape music to accompany film, installation and performance art.