Venezuelan Protest Music Through History

In recent weeks, thousands of Venezuelans have taken to the streets to voice their dissent against the controversial election of President Nicolás Maduro. This wave of protests has sparked a cultural response, with artists like Danny Ocean using their music to capture the sentiments of the populace during this tumultuous period. Ocean's contributions highlight a broader tradition of Venezuelan music that serves as a reflection of the country's political landscape and the emotions of its citizens, both at home and in the diaspora. On a recent episode of NPR's Alt.Latino, hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre, alongside producer Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, explored the intersection of music and politics in Venezuela over the past three decades. They delved into significant historical moments that have shaped the nation, illustrating how music has been a powerful medium for expressing political opinions and social sentiments throughout these times of upheaval. The episode features a selection of impactful songs that resonate with the current political climate, including Yordano's "Por estas calles," Carlos Baute's "Yo me quedo en Venezuela," and Canserbero's "Es Épico." These tracks, among others, serve as anthems for the ongoing struggle and aspirations of the Venezuelan people, encapsulating their hopes and frustrations. The production of this episode involved a collaborative effort, with audio editing by Taylor Haney and editorial support from a dedicated team. The program aims to shed light on the vital role of music in articulating the collective voice of a nation facing significant challenges.