Conclusion

Abstract

The recording industry is often portrayed as machinery governed by global technological and economic developments. This book has delved into the ways that local social, political and economic factors shape the industry and its trajectories in South Africa. I began by showing that there has been a close intertwinement of multinational and local labels and international and domestic music repertoires from the very inception of the industry, often the cause of heated debate and evaluation. Both international and local actors and music have been a necessary part of the industry’s development. The mutual dependence of these and other industry participants, often accompanied by antagonistic feelings and attempts at independence, is a consistent theme throughout the book.