The State of the Arts is a snapshot of the struggles faced by some of South Africa’s entertainment and live-performing artists during the Covid-19 pandemic and the still-ongoing lockdown restrictions.
Below is a documentary that were released on Monday 21 June 2021 (by Adrien Conradie) where the participants discuss their emotions from the time “that C word” became a reality. All of us that make, or made, a living through arts, can relate fully with each word these Producers, DJ’s, Club-owners and Musicians said.
Some of us will have total Empathy and experiencing every feeling and emotion they describe. We see the hurt in their eyes and hear their broken hearts through their voices. On the other hand, others will have Sympathy and understand our suffering. It’s more like a cognitive in nature and those will keep a certain distance because they perhaps have a job or income and perhaps receive a salary at the end of the month.
Monday, 21 June 2021 was World Music Day.
For those who do not know – Mondays and Tuesdays are a musicians “weekend”, and some also work on those days.
“We all know that music has the ability to touch our souls where words alone can’t” – Johnny Depp
This subject might be depressing and we all need to stay positive and surround us with up lifting material. Let us face it – we can’t just wish these things away. We have to talk about it. Blessed are those who have friends, an understanding wife/husband, life-partners and groups they can discuss it with. Some hang on to his/her faith and religion. This is a phase all human kind have to face and process. No matter your age or occupation.
“WE DO NOT MAKE MUSIC BECAUSE WE ARE HAPPY – WE ARE HAPPY BECAUSE WE MAKE MUSIC” – Unknown
Have a look at the documentary here: