Django Generations: Hearing Ethnorace, Citizenship, and Jazz Manouche in France

Jazz manouche is a French musical genre that celebrates the recorded work of Django Reinhardt and is named for the ethnoracial subgroup of Romanies to which he belonged. This book explores how this music is used to construct divergent ethnoracial and national identities in a context where discussions of race are otherwise censured, generating ethnoracial difference and socioeconomic exclusion. It is the first full-length ethnographic study of French jazz to be published in English and enriches anthropological, ethnomusicological, and historical scholarship on global jazz, race and ethnicity, and citizenship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2021
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Jazz manouche, a vibrant and guitar-driven genre that has gained immense popularity in France throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, holds a special place in the country's musical heritage. Named after the ethnoracial subgroup of Romanies, also known as "Gypsies," jazz manouche is celebrated for its energetic and captivating performances. However, despite its public acclaim, French Manouches face widespread discrimination, highlighting a contradiction at the core of France's assimilationist republican ideals.

In his book, "Jazz Manouche: Constructing Divergent Ethnoracial and National Identities in France," Siv B. Lie delves into the intricate ways in which jazz manouche is employed to shape diverse ethnoracial and national identities. Through a comprehensive blend of ethnographic and historical analysis, Lie demonstrates how jazz manouche becomes a source of profound ambivalence, generating ethnoracial difference and socioeconomic exclusion. As the first full-length ethnographic study of French jazz to be published in English, this book not only contributes to anthropological, ethnomusicological, and historical scholarship on global jazz, race and ethnicity, and citizenship but also underscores the crucial role that music can play in struggles for racial and economic justice.

Jazz manouche emerges as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that intertwines relationships between racial identities, jazz, and national belonging. It serves as a platform for the expression of cultural heritage and identity, while simultaneously navigating the challenges of prejudice and marginalization. The genre's roots can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the music was brought to France by Romanian and other Roma musicians. Over time, it evolved into a distinct style characterized by its lively rhythms, intricate guitar melodies, and infectious energy.

One of the defining features of jazz manouche is its association with the Romanies, who have historically faced discrimination and marginalization in French society. Despite this, French Manouches are publicly celebrated as bearers of this jazz tradition, and many take pride in their musical heritage. However, their experiences of discrimination are not forgotten, and they continue to face challenges in accessing education, employment, and housing opportunities.

Jazz manouche has also played a significant role in shaping national identity in France. The genre has been embraced by both the French government and the general public, who view it as a symbol of French cultural diversity and excellence. It has been featured in numerous cultural events, festivals, and television shows, contributing to the promotion of France as a global cultural hub.

However, the relationship between jazz manouche and national identity is not without its complexities. While the genre is celebrated as a symbol of French cultural heritage, it is also seen as a reminder of the country's colonial past and the ongoing struggles of marginalized communities. Some critics argue that jazz manouche perpetuates stereotypes and reinforces prejudices against Romanies, while others argue that it provides a platform for the expression of cultural identity and resistance against oppression.

In conclusion, jazz manouche is a vibrant and dynamic genre that has played a significant role in shaping French cultural identity and national belonging. While it is celebrated as a symbol of cultural diversity and excellence, it also faces challenges related to discrimination and marginalization. Through its exploration of the complex relationships between racial identities, jazz, and national belonging, "Jazz Manouche: Constructing Divergent Ethnoracial and National Identities in France" provides valuable insights into the ways in which music can be used as a tool for social change and the ongoing struggles for racial and economic justice.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 160 x 236 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226810812