Formed in 1988, Black Noise came to the scene when graffiti and break dancing were acceptable forms of expression, also known as art in their communities of South Africa. Black Noise is compromised of social and political activist by the names of Emile, Gavin, Ray, Angelo, and Dennis, all of whom have no problem with taking political stances throughout most, if not all of their music. Black Noise, immersed themselves in all aspects of hip-hop, such as break dancing. In 1997, Black Noise even took third place in the world break dancing competition located in Germany.
Black Noise crew released songs such as Pumping Loose Da Juice in 1992, Rebirth of mind and culture in 1995, and Black is back. “Black is black” brings the message of expressing oneself through various types of art, whether that be break dancing, singing, rapping, or graffiti. Black Noise is exceptionally good at telling stories throughout their songs. For an example in “Black is Black” they explain how the idea of hip-hop isn’t this new ideology, but has been around since the beginning of time in Africa, in forms that many people may have not depicted as “real” hip-hop.
” In everything we do, we have to question why” – Black Noise 1998
Black Noise also released a song titled “Questions” in 1998. This song in particular provides an extremely vital message to not only the people of South Africa, but to the world. Questions, shows the groups political stance by explaining the importance of asking questions about things that are affecting them and their community during the apartheid era. This song drew a lot of community support, however, South Africa is still facing overwhelming poverty and high crime rates.
A group created a few decades is still very relevant today throughout all of South Africa, as their social and political activism went beyond music, as they enriched their own communities through volunteer and out reach services.
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