A Pure Solar World: Sun Ra and the Birth of Afrofuturism

The book A Pure Solar World: Sun Ra and the Birth of Afrofuturism explores the life and work of Sun Ra, the father of Afrofuturism, who brought "space music" to a planet in need of transformation. It assesses his wide-ranging creative output and connects it to the culture and politics of his times, including the space race, the rise of technocracy, the civil rights movement, and space-age bachelor-pad music. Sun Ra aimed for a holistic response to a planet in need of new visions and vibrations and a new kind of political activism that used popular culture to advance social change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 372 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: University of Texas Press

Surveying the boundless realm of Sun Ra's extraordinary creativity, this captivating book delves into the profound impact of the father of Afrofuturism on a world in dire need of transformation. Through his visionary music and captivating stage performances, Sun Ra not only brought forth the genre of "space music" but also served as a beacon of hope for black people in an often hostile white world.

Born on Saturn, according to Sun Ra's own account, he emerged onto the earthly stage with a musical legacy that is nothing short of extraordinary. Renowned for his innovative compositions and extravagant stage shows, he pioneered free-form improvisation in an ensemble setting, accompanied by the dedicated band he affectionately referred to as the "Arkestra." Sun Ra's musical prowess transcended earthly boundaries, infusing traditional swing with cosmic harmonies, rhythms, and sounds that defied conventional expectations. As the father of Afrofuturism, Sun Ra envisioned a brighter future for American blacks on Earth.

A Pure Solar World: Sun Ra and the Birth of Afrofuturism presents a spirited exploration into the life and remarkable work of this legendary yet underappreciated musician, composer, and poet. Author Paul Youngquist delves into the vast expanse of Sun Ra's creative output, encompassing music, public preaching, graphic design, film and stage performances, and poetry. By meticulously examining Sun Ra's diverse endeavors, Youngquist establishes a profound connection between his artistic creations and the cultural and political landscape of his era. This includes the space race, the rise of technocracy, the civil rights movement, and even the space-age bachelor-pad music that emerged during that time. Through a thorough examination of Sun Ra's astro-black mythology, Youngquist adeptly demonstrates that he offered not only a holistic response to a planet yearning for new visions and vibrations but also a novel form of political activism that harnessed the power of popular culture to drive social change.

In a nation consumed by space exploration and grappling with complex racial issues, Sun Ra aimed not merely for assimilation for the socially marginalized but rather for a wholesale transformation of American society and a more imaginative and egalitarian world. His music, preaching, and artistic endeavors served as a catalyst for change, inspiring generations to embrace diversity, challenge societal norms, and envision a brighter future for all. Sun Ra's legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of creativity, imagination, and the pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable world.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781477327289