Harvey, David. 2005. A brief history of neoliberalism. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
A Brief History of Neoliberalism
David Harvey details the global shift from Keynesian economics and conventional socialism to economic strategies built on neoliberal principles. Prior to World War two class power was beginning to crumble. The gap between the proletariat and bourgeoisie was closing all over the world. This wasn’t a problem when economies were stable. But when economies crashed the bourgeoisie suffered and their political power and assets were threatened. In an effort to avoid such ruptures in the future, the worlds elite turned to neoliberal principles for stability and control. These policies aimed to separate the state from the market. Deregulation of markets would allow for maximum profits, thus leading to more stability among the elite.
I use Harvey’s conclusions to analyze the hip-hop and rap industry. I argue that neoliberalism’s purpose of restoring and securing class power is evident in the relationship between hip-hop artist, their music, and their record labels.
(2014) Introduction: Music, Music Making and Neoliberalism, Culture, Theory and Critique, 55:2, 129-137, DOI: 10.1080/14735784.2014.913847
Introduction: Music, Music Making and Neoliberalism, Culture, Theory and Critique
Javier F. León writes, “Privatization, deregulation, and a weakening of the state have provided a backdrop for accounts of the transformation of institutions that support musical activities (schools, recording companies, instrument makers, state-sponsored ensembles), particularly in places where these reforms have been tied to democratic transitions, as has been the case in South Africa, parts of Latin America, and the former Eastern Bloc countries.” In this article León reviews the intersection of music and neoliberalism, its neglect in the academy, and the potential outcomes of overlooking it.
I use León’s essay to build a connection with neoliberalism and the production of music through understanding the roles and manipulation of institutions. The next step is to begin building a history of hip-hop.