The Controversial Ban: Why Did South Africa Prohibit Pink Floyd’s Another Brick In The Wall Part 2?

Exactly 39 years ago, the South African government made an astonishing decree. On a day that has become a significant milestone in cultural and educational history, the authorities censured Pink Floyd's iconic track, “Another Brick In The Wall Part 2.” This decision was not made lightly; it arose from a budding culture of resistance against the oppressive apartheid system and the lyrics' unintended use by school children. Let's delve into the reasons behind this controversial ban, the context in which it occurred, and its lasting impact.

Context and Background

During the apartheid era in South Africa (1948-1994), the government imposed strict control over music, films, and other media to maintain their hegemony. The apartheid regime aimed to suppress any form of dissent or critique of the system, particularly among the youth who were increasingly exposed to Western culture through various mediums.

The song "Another Brick In The Wall Part 2," released by Pink Floyd in 1979, served as a reflection of the rigid and oppressive education system prevalent at the time. The lyrics serve as a metaphor for the conformist and authoritative nature of the educational curriculum under apartheid. The song highlights the disconnection between the oppressive system and the students' sense of disunity and rebellion.

Use by School Children

The lyrics of the song proved to be more than just a reflection of the oppressive education system; they became a powerful tool for resistance among South African school children. Middle and high school students began reciting and singing the lyrics during protest rallies and demonstrations. The song's satirical and critical tone resonated with the youth, who were facing harsh educational conditions under the apartheid regime.

In the early 1980s, the song's lyrics were used to voice dissatisfaction with the minimal resources, lack of encouragement, and rigid curricula imposed on schools. As they gathered to protest their impoverished educational experiences, school children often chanted the repeated phrase "Another brick in the wall," symbolizing their collective resistance and defiance.

Government's Response

Recognizing the potential of the song as a unifying force and a medium of resistance, the South African government decided to take action. On October 17, 1982, shortly after the release of the single, Radio South Africa banned the broadcast of "Another Brick In The Wall." However, this was a mere surface-level attempt to suppress the song; the real impact lay in the widespread dissemination of the lyrics among students and anti-apartheid activists.

The government's decision to censor the song was a significant setback for the anti-apartheid movement, especially among the youth. The use of media to spread ideas and dissent is a crucial component of any social change movement. By prohibiting the song, the South African government effectively aimed to silence this particular channel of communication and dissent.

Impact and Legacy

Despite the government's ban, the song continued to have a profound impact on society. Its powerful lyrics and catchy melody resonated with people not only in South Africa but also around the world. The song's legacy lies not in its physical presence on the radio but in the stories and experiences of those who used it as a tool for resistance.

Today, "Another Brick In The Wall Part 2" remains a poignant symbol of the struggles faced by the youth under apartheid. The song's enduring popularity and relevance are testament to its enduring message of defiance and resistance against oppressive systems.

Conclusion

The banning of "Another Brick In The Wall Part 2" by the South African government serves as a stark reminder of the power of music as a tool for resistance and the lengths to which oppressive regimes will go to silence dissent. The song's ability to connect with the youth and foster a sense of unity and resistance is a testament to its cultural significance. As we commemorate this historical event, let us also acknowledge the role of music in shaping social change and celebrating the strength of the human spirit.