Memory and History in Argentine Popular Music

Memory and History in Argentine Popular Music explores how Argentine popular music of the 1990s and early 2000s captured the feel of daily life and the changes that occurred under the neoliberal economic model, serving as accounts of historical events and social and economic changes. It also explores how the process of remembering and forgetting takes place on the Internet.

Format: Hardback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Memory and History in Argentine Popular Music delves into the vibrant realm of Argentine popular music during the 1990s and early 2000s, exploring its profound connection with the socio-economic crisis that shook Argentine society at the end of 2001. This captivating book draws upon the three most beloved genres of that era: tango, rock chabón, and cumbia villera, a unique form of cumbia originating from the shantytowns. Through meticulous analysis of lyrics from these three genres, the book uncovers how they encapsulate the essence of daily life and the profound transformations wrought by the neoliberal economic model that ravaged the country throughout the 1990s. It argues that these songs are not mere melodies; rather, they are historical narratives, songs that depict historical events and weave personal stories. Consequently, the lyrics from all three genres serve as poignant accounts of historical events and social and economic shifts, denouncing the injustices perpetuated by neoliberal economic policies.

Furthermore, this book delves into the intricate process of remembering and forgetting in the digital age. It examines how users navigate video-sharing portals and harness the power of music to create "virtual sites of memory," a concept that expands Winters' notion of physical sites of memory to encompass digital environments as virtual sites of commemoration. By exploring these digital spaces, the book sheds light on the ways in which individuals and communities preserve and commemorate their shared history, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering a sense of collective identity.

In conclusion, Memory and History in Argentine Popular Music is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of music, history, and society. Through its meticulous exploration of lyrics and the digital realm, the book provides a rich tapestry of insights into the complex dynamics that shaped Argentine culture during a pivotal period. It serves as a testament to the power of music as a means of expression, memory, and social change, and its enduring relevance in shaping the narratives of our collective past.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 237 x 158 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793648341