Postcolonial theory: blog tasks

 Wider reading on race and Old Town Road

Read this W Magazine deep dive on the Yeehaw agenda and answer the following questions: 

1) What are the visual cues the article lists as linked to the western genre? 

The article identifies visual cues such as cowboy hats, boots, horses, denim, fringed jackets, and desert landscapes. These are all traditional symbols of the Western genre and help create a recognisable cowboy image.

2) How did the Yeehaw agenda come about? 

The Yeehaw agenda began as an online trend. It grew through memes, fashion, and music, with artists like Lil Nas X helping popularise it. It became a way to celebrate Black identity in cowboy culture.

3) Why has it been suggested that the black cowboy has been 'erased from American culture'? 

The article suggests Black cowboys were erased because history and media have mainly focused on white cowboys. In reality, many cowboys were Black, but this has been ignored in films and popular culture.

4) How has the black cowboy aesthetic been reflected by the fashion industry?

The fashion industry has embraced the Black cowboy aesthetic. Designers have used cowboy hats, boots, and Western-style clothing in modern collections. This shows how the Yeehaw trend has influenced mainstream fashion.

5) Read the section on Lil Nas X and Old Town Road. What does it suggest about race and the country music community?

The article suggests that country music has often excluded Black artists. The reaction to Old Town Road shows how race still affects who is accepted in the genre. It highlights ongoing issues of inclusion.

6) What elements of the song and music video are suggested to be authentically country and western?

The song includes banjo sounds and simple storytelling, which are typical of country music. The video uses horses, cowboy outfits, and Western settings. These elements make it recognisably country.

7) What genres of music does the article suggest have been shaped by black influences? 

The article suggests that genres like country, rock, and pop have all been influenced by Black artists. It argues that Black contributions are often overlooked in music history.

8) In your opinion, what do you think has been the driving force behind the Yeehaw movement? 

The main driving force behind the Yeehaw movement is social media and cultural change. It allows people to challenge stereotypes and celebrate overlooked histories. It is also driven by a desire for better representation.

Applying postcolonial theory to Old Town Road

Revise the postcolonial theories we have studied and apply them to the Old Town Road music video: 

1) How does the Old Town Road music video both reinforce and challenge black stereotypes in the media?

The video challenges stereotypes by showing Black cowboys in a positive and central role. However, it may still use some exaggerated or humorous elements. Overall, it presents a more empowering image.

2) How could you argue that the Old Town Road video challenges Gilroy's theory of double consciousness?

Gilroy suggests Black identity is divided between cultures. The video challenges this by confidently blending hip-hop and country. Lil Nas X shows a unified identity rather than a conflicted one.

3) How does Lil Nas X and Old Town Road provide an example of Hall's theory of race representations? Alternatively, you could argue against this if you prefer.  

Hall argues that representation is constructed through media. Old Town Road supports this by reshaping how Black people are shown in Western culture. It creates new, more positive meanings.

4) Are there any examples of Alvarado's theory of black stereotypes in the Old Town Road video? Why/why not?

There are few clear examples of traditional stereotypes like the “comic” or “criminal.” The video avoids negative portrayals and instead shows success and confidence. This suggests a shift away from older stereotypes.

5) How does Lil Nas X provide a compelling case study for bell hooks's theory of intersectionality?

Lil Nas X represents multiple identities, including race and sexuality. His success shows how these identities intersect in media representation. This makes him a strong example of intersectionality in modern culture.