All of my arrangements are now set for my first foray to SXSW. Here's the description of my session, which was organized by fellow traveler Kandia Crazy Horse:
From the transatlantic success of bands like TV On the Radio and Bloc Party to the New York Times' infamous recognition of "blipsters" or "black people who rock" in early 2007, it has become clear that something's afoot regarding the progressive music and alternative lifestyles of blacks in the West. However, twenty-odd years after the founding of the Black Rock Coalition and four decades since Jimi Hendrix revolutionized the planet via electric kozmic blues full parity for black sonic self-determination remains a dream deferred.
The panel takes place on Thursday, March 19 at 11AM CST in room 17AB of the Austin Convention Center. I'm looking forward to meeting my fellow panelists. In addition to Kandia, other scheduled panelists are:
- Daphne Brooks – Princeton University
- Wendy Fonarow – Anthropology
- Duane Harriott – Audio Archeology/OtherMusic
So, my big question is this: What do y'all think about the description? Is this a realistic assessment? Is it pessimistic?
I'm going to hold my comments for now. Let's hear from the community. I'll share my thoughts before I leave for Austin.
Anyway, have at it in the comments section. I'll appreciate your feedback.
