RMST420

La Vibe: Francophone Soundscapes from Afrobeats to V-Pop

In this dynamic and immersive course, we’ll explore the rich musical soundscapes of the Francophone world, from the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats, Konpa and Rumba to the stars of la chanson française, Franco-Rap, V-Pop, and more. Through a mix of listening sessions, readings, historical deep dives, and engaging discussions, students will discover how music reflects cultural identity, social movements, and global trends across French-speaking countries. We’ll analyze lyrics (with translations), learn about different genres and their evolution, and hear from Vancouver-based musicians who will share their insights into the Francophone music scene. The course also offers a tour of UBC’s radio station CiTR. For the final assignment, students will learn to create their own radio segment showcasing a theme, genre, or artist of their choice. The best projects will be featured on CiTR’s radio show Kafou Muzik, giving students a chance to have their work broadcasted to a wider audience. Whether you’re a music lover, a culture enthusiast, or just looking to expand your playlist, this course will have you grooving from start to finish!

Language of instruction: English

Instructor: Dr. Antje Ziethen

Prerequisites: Recommended for students in 3rd year or above. Restricted to students with 2nd year standing or above.