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I wonder whether the young Afrikaans folk singer and composer, Bok van Blerk, had an inkling of the social, political and cultural issues that would be ignited by De la Rey.Īnalysis of this song by the Afrikaans media seems to suggest that this song is symbolic of a "rudderless volk" looking for a leader, or young Afrikaners "rebelling against affirmative action" (du Plessis, 2007). Reflecting on what I have read, heard and subsequently experienced of this song, it would seem that De la Rey is symbolic at a number of levels.
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For me, personally, it was merely a catchy Afrikaans song. This is not because we were overtly excluded but is very possibly because the song did not strike something within us or galvanise us into responding in this way. For this group the song seemed "merely a song" during which we observed rather than actively participated. It would seem that most English speaking guests, as well as those, whether English or Afrikaans who do not subscribe to the ideology or sentiment of the song, did not engage in the dance and fervour of the moment. At the same time, though, not everyone was moved in this way. The music seemed to represent something very powerful which galvanised a communal response. During the refrain they all spontaneously began to sing (perhaps shout-sing would be more accurate), stood embracing each other in a large circle, with some guests standing in the centre with their hands on their hearts or raising their arms, as if in protest or displaying some form of patriotism. The energy was electric as people began to dance, not merely to the catchy rhythm, but with conviction and passion. The small groups merged into one large group as they approached the dance floor. The minute the song began playing there was a buzz in the air. During the Band’s second break, one of the guests played a CD featuring De la Rey. The first time the Band took a break they played a CD as background music and the guests resumed their seats, replenished their glasses and continued chatting in small groups. The guests, a mixed group of English and Afrikaners mingled, chatting in small groups whilst some danced to the strains of a Blues Band. I recently experienced "the De la Rey phenomenon" at a wedding reception.
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Some reports suggest that there are those who even stand to attention, singing the song as if it were their National Anthem. The singing is loud, raucous and passionate. From various accounts it would seem that as the song is played it mobilises groups into instantaneous singing and dancing, usually in a large group. Numerous newspaper articles and on-air debates relate the powerful effect this song has in social situations such as at pubs, parties, schools and sporting events. The refrain means: De la Rey, De la Rey, will you come and lead the Afrikaners? The refrain of this song " De la Rey, De la Rey, sal jy die Boere kom lei" has struck a chord with White Afrikaners in an astounding way. He was regarded as one of the greatest military leaders during that conflict, one of the most headstrong of the generals at that time and a leading figure of Afrikaner Nationalism. So what is the De la Rey phenomenon?ĭe la Rey is a song about General Koos De la Rey (1847-1914) a Boer general during the Second Boer War. In some ways it is reminiscent of the South Africa of 20 years ago, highlighting the great Right /Left Wing Divide.
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It has sparked militant and highly charged debate on radio talk shows. For some the song has the status of a National Anthem, for others, it is highly offensive. Some want the song banned, others are consumed by it. South Africa has recently been taken by storm by an Afrikaans song entitled "De la Rey." The controversy surrounding the song has made front page coverage from local community papers to the "Times" of New York. "The De la Rey Phenomenon" – More than a Song?